On 07-18-17 at about 9:30pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call from Gold Beach resident Bo Shindler reporting that 40 year old Amy Nuttbrock of Albany California was missing. Shindler stated he had dropped of Nuttbrock at Game Lake at about 11:30am and that she was supposed to hike from there down to the mouth of Lawson Creek on the Illinois River just above Oak Flat in Agness, Or. Shindler said Nuttbrock was not familiar with the area, did not believe she had the proper gear and was going on information provided by the US Forest Service about the Game Lake Trail. When darkness fell and Nuttbrock did not show up, Shindler called the Sheriff’s Office. Due to the darkness and rugged area, a plan to search was formulated by the Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team for the following morning.

On 07-19-17, Curry County Search and Rescue members searched several trails in the area while Cal Ore Life Flight owner Dan Brattian and passenger Sheriff John Ward flew over the area for several hours in a helicopter. John Rachor and Mark White were also in the air in a fixed wing airplane searching the area. By late evening searchers had not located Nuttbrock but did find foot prints and a cold fire ring indicating that Nuttbrock was possibly in that area. A call was placed for assistance from CORSAR (California Oregon Regional Search and Rescue) for the next operational period.

On 07-20-17, SAR members from several counties including Josephine, Jackson, Klamath, Siskiyou and Del Norte counties arrived and responded to the area of Game Lake where the Curry County Command trailer was located. Search crews started searching the areas where they had found possible clues to Nuttbrock being there while Dan Brattian and Sheriff John Ward searched by air.

At about 9:45am, Dan Brattian and Sheriff Ward spotted Nuttbrock from the air in small opening amongst dense timber alongside of a small creek called Horse Sigh Creek approximately one and three quarter miles west of the Illinois River. It was then determined that the best way to get her out safely was to ask the US Coast Guard to assist with doing an air lift. A call was placed to the US Coast Guard and they responded.

At about 11:45pm, The US Coast Guard arrived in the area, lowered a rescue swimmer down and air lifted Nuttbrock out of the area and flew her over to the Agness airstrip. From there Nuttbrock was then flown to the Gold Beach airport by Dan Brattian to be reunited with her father and Shindler. Nuttbrook only suffered from hunger and many scratches on her legs from going through the brush.

When asked about her ordeal, Nuttbrock stated that she was not prepared for the conditions and assumed there would be a well-marked and maintained trail. This was not the case and she found herself in a life and death situation. Nuttbrock thanked everyone for saving her life.

We would like to thank all the Search and Rescue Members who responded from Curry County and all the other counties to help search for Amy Nuttbrock. A special thanks to Dan Brattian for his time and the use of his helicopter. Dan has always been willing to stop what he is doing and lend a hand. Without Dan, we would probably still be searching.

On 01-12-17 at about 10:20am, sixty-nine year old Sokhan Oul out of Portland, Or., was found alive and well after being lost for three days and two nights. Search crews found Oul after a helicopter piloted by Dan Brattain of Cal Ore Life Flight and passenger Sheriff John Ward spotted a small plume of smoke in the Mt. Emily Drainage about a half mile from where she was last seen.

Oul was reported missing to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office on 01-10-17 at about 7:30pm after her two friends she was picking mushrooms with had not seen her since about 1:00pm that day. Curry County Search and Rescue members drove to the location which was about seven miles east on the 1107 Road from the North Bank of the Chetco River Road. SAR members contacted the reporting party and found out that Oul had disappeared on a spur road and they were not able to find her. SAR members drove the roads throughout the night trying sound sweeps with horns and sirens.

On 01-11-17, Curry County SAR members searched the skid roads with quads and ventured into the area where Oul was last seen. By night fall, SAR members had not found any sign of Oul and it was snowing hard and about 32 degrees. A call was placed for additional resources from CORSAR (California, Oregon Regional Search and Rescue).

On 01-12-17 at about 8:00am, the Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue along with small SAR teams from Siskiyou, Jackson, Josephine, Del Norte, and Coos Counties, including K-9 teams, started a grid search of several areas. At about 10:20pm, while searching the entire Mt Emily drainage from the air, Dan Brattain and Sheriff John Ward spotted a plume of smoke above the trees in a heavily wooded and steep area. The coordinates were radioed back to base camp and search teams were deployed to the area. Search teams reached the area and found Sokhan Oul standing by a fire she had made to keep herself warm. Search crews were able to get Oul back to an overgrown skid road and then transported her back to base camp. Oul stated she started a fire by using some of her clothing and a lighter to help stay warm. Oul stated when she heard the helicopter she piled on brush to her fire to make more smoke.

I want to thank everyone involved in the search for Sokhan Oul, especially CORSAR and Dan Brattain of Cal Ore Life Flight. Without Dan, we may have not found Oul when we did.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 01-10-17

Re: Commissioner Boice and Fishing Guide Jon Carl

On 01-09-17 the Curry County Sheriff’s Office was notified by Jackson County SAR member John Rachor who had called to report an injured man at Paradise Lodge. Rachor said they were notified by radio that forty-nine year old male subject had fallen from a ladder and hurt his back while working at the Paradise Lodge east of Agness. The only access to Paradise Lodge is either by boat or air and with the river close to flood stage Rachor stated that Brim Aviation out of Medford was willing to fly in with a helicopter and transport the injured subject out. It was learned later that Brim Aviation was not able to fly in due to the weather and the injured subject, Ronald Laughery out of Medford, Or., had decided he was ok.

On 01-10-17 at about 8:15am, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office was advised that Ronald Laughery was now stating he was having medical issues due to the fall the day before and needed to be transported out. With heavy rains and high winds, a helicopter was out of the question and with the severe storm Curry County is experiencing, the Rogue River was at flood stage with large debris in the river. At this point, communication systems at Paradise Lodge were not working and it was very hard to get any information in or out.

With very little medical information to go on due to the poor communication issues, Curry County Commissioner Court Boice and local Agness fishing guide, Jon Carl, volunteered to take a boat from Agness to Paradise Lodge, a distance of about 22 miles up-river. Commissioner Boice and Jon Carl were able to make it to Paradise Lodge by boat and transport Ronald Laughery back to Agness. According to medical personnel who were waiting in Agness, Laughery did not show signs of injury and he refused any further medical treatment.

It is amazing that we have community members like Commissioner Court Boice and Jon Carl who would risk their lives and equipment. With little regard to their own safety, they took a boat twenty-two miles from Agness to Paradise Lodge when the river was near flood stage, rapids were very dangerous and a lot of debris in the river to help someone else.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 01-03-17

Re: DUII, Attempt to Elude, Reckless Driving, DWS

On 01-02-2017 at about 4:04pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a vehicle southbound from Port Orford Oregon at a high rate of speed. The vehicle was described as an all-black sports type vehicle with a rear spoiler.

At about 4:17pm, dispatch received an additional 911 call reporting the vehicle was pushing cars off the highway about ten miles north of Gold Beach near Ophir at a high rate of speed.

At about 4:25pm, a Gold Beach City Police Officer observed the vehicle crossing the Rogue River Bridge and the vehicle was caught on radar doing over 70mph. The officer was unable to get turned around on the vehicle due to traffic.

Marine Sergeant Ted Heath saw the vehicle near the South City Limits of Gold Beach and observed the vehicle travelling Southbound passing several vehicles at a high rate of speed near the intersection of Hunter Creek Loop Road.

Marine Sergeant Heath began to pursue the vehicle and lost sight of it just past Kissing Rock Wayside where there was snow and hail on the roadway starting at the South intersection of Hunter Creek Road, continuing south up Cape Sebastian. The vehicle continued travelling southbound using all lanes of the highway to stay on the road, travelling into the on-coming lanes of travel on blind corners and at an extremely high rate of speed. The vehicle ran another vehicle off the road near Belleview Lane, and another vehicle off the road just South of Herman Lane.

The suspect vehicle spun out at the top of Cape Sebastian where the northbound passing lanes ended. The vehicle was then seen by the Sergeant turning left onto Sebastian Lane and the vehicle again used all lanes of traffic, travelling at high speeds in the snow in an attempt to elude the Sergeant.

At about 4:30pm the vehicle slid off the roadway into a ditch on a sharp corner. Two subjects exited the vehicle, one running down the roadway and the other over the embankment into a steep brushy ravine.

The Sergeant caught one subject running down the road later identified as 29 year old Jacob Wallace Walker out of Washington who had had a valid warrant issued for his arrest out of Washington for Identity Theft. A third subject who was the owner of the vehicle, twenty-one year old Ace Vann Dunn out of Brookings, was passed out in the rear of the vehicle and detained at the scene and later released.

At about 6:18pm, an Oregon State Trooper who was assisting in the investigation located the driver of the vehicle identified as 27 year old David Chapin Neely out of Brookings Oregon. Neely had escaped down the ravine and was located by the Trooper on Highway 101 near Myers Creek. Neely was arrested for the crimes of D.U.I.I., Eluding Police Officer, Recklessly endangering, Reckless Driving x 2 and Driving While Misdemeanor Suspended.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 12-23-16

Re: Press Release

On December 20, 2016 the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received several bags of Christmas presents from local community members to be delivered to a family who are struggling with the holidays. Curry County Sheriff Deputy Dona Dotson with Parole and Probation delivered the presents to a Brookings family with five children who basically had nothing for Christmas.

We are so thankful and humbled by the generosity of our community. It warms our hearts to know that this family will have a better Christmas but we are saddened by the fact that there are many more families who not only struggle through the holidays but the rest of the year as well.

From all of us here at the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Media ReleaseFrom: Sheriff John WardDate: 12-19-16Re: Press Release

On 12-16-16, the Rayonier Timber Company out of North Bend, Or., donated a check for $1,500.00 to the Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue program. Senior Timber Marketing Manager, Ian Thompson and Office Manger Holly Chandler, presented the check to Sheriff John Ward to be used for Search and Rescue.

We are extremely grateful for the generous donation by the Rayonier Corporation. Curry County has very limited resources to fund Search and Rescue and we rely on donations throughout the year to help the SAR program. Curry County has responded to numerous searches, rescues and recoveries throughout this past year and recently was honored with the SAR program of the 2016 year out of thirty-six counties by the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 12-09-16

Re: Press Release

On 12-07-16, while at the annual Oregon State Sheriff’s Association Conference and Awards Banquet held in Bend, Oregon, the OSSA awarded the Curry County Sheriff’s Office the Search and Rescue Program of the Year out of thirty-six counties. In 2016 the Curry County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team responded to numerous incidents involving Cliff Rescues, Injured Subjects, Lost Subjects and a Plane Crash that had crashed into the Ocean killing all three passengers. The OSSA also recognized and presented Life Saving Awards to Rocky Burns, Drew Harper and Luke Martinez of Gold Beach for their heroic efforts that saved the lives of two men on 10-09-16 when the two men’s boat capsized at the mouth of the Rogue River in heavy breaking seas.

Prior Press Release issued on 10-10-16

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 11-23-16

Re: Press Release

On 11-22-16 at about 4:40pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 transfer call from Jackson County reporting that there were two kayakers missing on the Chetco River. The caller, Jennifer Formolo of Medford had called to state that her son, twenty five year old David Formolo and his friend Joseph Hatcher both of Central Point Oregon had failed to return home after a planned Kayaking trip. The Sheriff’s Office was told that both Hatcher and Formolo had left on Sunday, November 20th to kayak the upper Chetco River and were to return on Monday but never showed.

Members of the Curry County Search and Rescue responded to the area, checking all access points to the river and located a vehicle belonging to Hatcher near the mouth of the South Fork Chetco about sixteen miles east of Brookings, Or. The vehicle had been left there at the takeout point for when Hatcher and Formolo concluded their float trip. SAR members continued to search the area but were unable to locate the other vehicle that Hatcher and Formolo were using and the location where they started their hike in. Search efforts were called off for the night.

On 11-23-16 search efforts resumed and efforts to locate Hatcher and Formolo’s vehicle were hampered by recent snow. Air assets were requested from the US Coast Guard but due to the bad weather, they were not able to respond. Brim Aviation out of Medford offered their assistance and sent a helicopter over. A SAR member with his homemade jet boat responded to the area as well to try and navigate up river on the main Chetco River from the South Fork Chetco.

At about 1:30 pm, the helicopter arrived on scene near the South Fork Chetco and just as the jet boat was launching, both Hatcher and Formolo floated down from around the corner to their planned take out area. Hatcher and Formolo were okay and said due to the water conditions in the Box Creek Canyon where they started, it took them longer than expected to kayak out. Hatcher and Formolo stated they were never lost, but had to climb up over ridges and back down the other side to the river several times in order to get around some unpassable areas.

Media ReleaseFrom: Sheriff John WardDate: 11-21-16Re: Press Release

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office and The Brookings Police Department have had an on-going narcotics investigation involving Leeds Foyil, owner of Chetco Traders in Brookings, Or.

On 11-18-16 with a search warrant that had been granted by the Circuit Courts of Curry County, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Brookings Police Department and Officers from SCINT served the warrant at the current residence of Foyil’s, a 5th Wheel trailer located at the Sea Bird R.V Park in Harbor, Or. During the search, small amounts of Heroin and Methamphetamine were found along with packaging material, digital scales, tally sheets, syringes and other drug related items.

Leeds Foyil was arrested ad lodged in the Curry County Jail on charges of Possession of Controlled Substances, Heroin and Methamphetamine. The case will be forwarded to the Curry County District Attorney’s Office and other charges are expected.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Brookings Police Department and SCINT are continuing the investigation.

On 11-18-16 at about 11:18pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from Kristy Gutierrez of Port Orford, Or., reporting that someone had just stolen her 1998 Dodge Neon from property located on Myrtle Lane just north of Port Orford.

Sheriff’s Deputies responded while the Port Orford Police Department started checking the areas in and around the city of Port Orford for the vehicle. A short time later Deputies located the vehicle driving south bound near the Rogue River Bridge in Gold Beach and stopped the vehicle in a trailer park just south of the Gold Beach High School. The driver, fifty-three year old Toby Welch also of Port Orford was taken into custody without incident and lodged in the Curry County Jail for the crimes of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Theft in the First Degree and Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree.

Deputies determined that Gutierrez did not know who Welch was or give him permission to drive her vehicle. Apparently Welch was trying to get to Las Vegas Nevada.

Media ReleaseFrom: Sheriff John WardDate: 11-21-16Re: Press Release

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office and The Brookings Police Department have had an on-going narcotics investigation involving Leeds Foyil, owner of Chetco Traders in Brookings, Or.

On 11-18-16 with a search warrant that had been granted by the Circuit Courts of Curry County, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Brookings Police Department and Officers from SCINT served the warrant at the current residence of Foyil’s, a 5th Wheel trailer located at the Sea Bird R.V Park in Harbor, Or. During the search, small amounts of Heroin and Methamphetamine were found along with packaging material, digital scales, tally sheets, syringes and other drug related items.

Leeds Foyil was arrested ad lodged in the Curry County Jail on charges of Possession of Controlled Substances, Heroin and Methamphetamine. The case will be forwarded to the Curry County District Attorney’s Office and other charges are expected.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Brookings Police Department and SCINT are continuing the investigation.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 11-21-16

Re: Subject Arrested with Stolen Vehicle

On 11-18-16 at about 11:18pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from Kristy Gutierrez of Port Orford, Or., reporting that someone had just stolen her 1998 Dodge Neon from property located on Myrtle Lane just north of Port Orford.

Sheriff’s Deputies responded while the Port Orford Police Department started checking the areas in and around the city of Port Orford for the vehicle. A short time later Deputies located the vehicle driving south bound near the Rogue River Bridge in Gold Beach and stopped the vehicle in a trailer park just south of the Gold Beach High School. The driver, fifty-three year old Toby Welch also of Port Orford was taken into custody without incident and lodged in the Curry County Jail for the crimes of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Theft in the First Degree and Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree.

Deputies determined that Gutierrez did not know who Welch was or give him permission to drive her vehicle. Apparently Welch was trying to get to Las Vegas Nevada.

Media Release

From: Captain Michael "Mick" Espinoza

Date: 11-3-16

Re: Criminal Trespass and Elude

INCIDENT:

On November 2, 2016 at approximately 6 pm deputies from the Curry County Sheriff’s Office were conducting a business check at Curry Transfer and Recycling in Port Orford located at the end of Arizona Street. Over the last year there have been numerous complaints of trespassing, thefts, and criminal mischief taking place at this location. As deputies arrived in the area of the transfer station they witnessed a motor vehicle parked outside the gates leading into the transfer station. When deputies began to approach the entrance for the transfer station, what appeared to be several subjects, 2 males and 1 female, fled from the area of vehicle and into the brush surrounding the transfer station.

The deputies on scene requested additional assistance in order to safely search the area for the subjects who fled. Port Orford PD responded along with another Sheriff’s Deputy. An extensive search of the area around the vehicle and around the transfer station was conducted by the Sheriff’s Office and Port Orford PD. During the search 2 subjects of interest became the focus of the search. The subjects of interest were found to have recent ties to the vehicle located at the scene. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office is withholding the names for the persons of interests due to ongoing investigations and other sources information being developed.

The vehicle of interest was impounded from the scene. At this time the Sheriff’s Office, along with Port Orford PD, will continue a criminal investigation that includes identifying those subjects who fled and attempting to positively identify the persons of interest associated with the vehicle that has been impounded. If anyone has information regarding this incident you can provide anonymous tips to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office through the non-emergency 911 line at (541) 247-3243.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 10-25-16

Re: Press ReleaseUPDATE

UPDATE

As of today, Tuesday October 25, 2016, the extensive ground search for Shawn Higgins of Coos Bay, Oregon has been suspended due to no signs, clues or indication to where he might be in the vast rugged search area. Shawn Higgins and his son Trevor had both gone missing while hunting in the Shasta Costa drainage in the Bear Camp area about forty-five miles east of Gold Beach on Friday 10-14-16. Trevor Higgins was found four days into the search by search crews about two and a half miles from where he entered the woods. Trevor was then airlifted by the U.S. Coast Guard to Bay Area Hospital, suffering from severe hyperthermia due to his extended exposure to the cold wet weather.

Search and Rescue teams from several counties around the state along with numerous friends and co-workers from Coos County assisted Curry County Search and Rescue in searching from just after daylight to after dark every day with over a hundred searchers. Some crews spent the night in the search area to be able to search longer and cover more area. K-9’s were used to help search the areas and volunteers manned the camp, providing much needed food and refreshments to the searchers as they came in. The weather was wet, windy and cold most of the time there.

Business from Coos and Curry Counties donated truckloads of food, clothing, and an abundant amount of supplies for the search crews. Volunteers cooked hot meals to make sure the searchers were taken care of and would be able to continue the search.

With no sign of Shawn by Sunday evening, Search and Rescue Crews and overhead teams from all over the State of Oregon started demobilizing to return to their own counties after spending nine days searching for Shawn. Several of Shawn’s friends, co-workers and acquaintances went back in the search area on Monday and spent the entire day again searching without finding any clues to where Shawn may be. These same brave committed friends of Shawn showed back up this morning and helped Curry County SAR clean up the base camp.

It is with a heavy heart that we have to suspend the search for Shawn at this time. Our hearts go out to the family, friends and community that love Shawn so dearly. We pray that they will find a way to make sense of this tragedy and heal their hearts. The connection that the people of Coos County have with each other and the way they come together to help each other is nothing but astonishing and an example for other communities to live by. I am very humbled.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 10-18-16

Re: Press ReleaseUPDATE

UPDATE

On 10-18-16 at about 2:00pm, search teams found twenty-one year old Trevor Higgins about three miles from the trail head he had gone in on, down in the Squirrel Creek drainage. Trevor was cold, wet, lethargic and Hypothermic. The U.S. Coast Guard Helicopter had been staging in the Gold Beach area and was asked to respond to airlift Trevor out of the area. While waiting for the Coast Guard, the search crew that had found Trevor built a fire to help warm him up.

The air lift was very difficult due to the steep terrain, heavy timber, brush and overcast but the Coast Guard was able to get in under the weather and successfully lifted Trever out of the drainage and flew him straight to Bay Area Hospital in Coos Bay.

Meanwhile a National Guard helicopter searched by air the rest of the afternoon while several large ground search crews continued to search for Shawn Higgins till after dark when the search was suspended for the evening. The search will continue again at daylight.

I can’t express our gratitude enough for all the support and help we have received and continue to receive in this search. There are too many people to list so I won’t attempt at this time. We will put out more updates when we have more to report.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 10-18-16

Re: SEARCH CONTINUES FOR TWO MISSING COOS BAY MEN

On Friday 10-14-16 at about 7:00pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call regarding two lost hunters in the Bear Camp area about 45 miles east of Gold Beach. Curry County Sergeant Ted Heath and several Search and Rescue members responded to the area and determined that the two missing were forty-one year old Shawn Higgins and his son twenty-one year old Trevor Higgins, both of Coos Bay, Or. Both Shawn and Trevor were hunting with another family member in an area known as High Ridge near the top of the Shasta Costa drainage. Shawn Higgins did not show up to a planned meeting area and after a few hours of looking for him, Trevor also failed to make it back to the roadway prior to dark where all three were to meet. SAR members were not able to deploy into the massive area due to the darkness and weather. SAR members stayed through the night driving all the surrounding main and spur roads in the area doing sound sweeps.

On Saturday 10-15-16, Curry County Sheriff’s SAR members assisted by local residents with knowledge of the area hiked into the area and spent the day in bad weather searching for Shawn and Trevor. A call was placed for additional resources from the CORSAR counties along with requests for helicopters. The search ended at dark with no sign of Shawn or Trevor. SAR members continued to drive the roads throughout Saturday night.

On Sunday 10-16-18, about eighty SAR members from several counties along with family and friends of Shawn and Trevor arrived and continued searching the area. The weather was extremely bad making it impossible for the Coast Guard to fly the area due to heavy rains, winds and persistent fog. Searchers continued searching till dark and once again, had no clues to indicate as to where Shawn and Trevor were. SAR members continued to drive the roads throughout the night.

On Monday 10-17-16, the search continued again with a large mixture of SAR personnel and non SAR volunteers. About eighty searchers combed the areas above and below the High Ridge trail and down into the Shasta Costa drainage. The weather was still bad with heavy rains and fog making the search very difficult. With all the rains, the creeks and drainages were full of rushing waters and along with the wind, made it impossible to hear in the search area. By dark, there was still no sign of Shawn or Trevor and the search was suspended for the night.

Today, Tuesday 10-18-19, the search is continuing with multiple counties and local volunteers from several counties including family and friends. We are hoping for a break in the weather so we can get an aircraft up in the area to search.

If those who wish to assist, we ask that you are physically fit to be able to take long hikes in extreme conditions, be prepared with proper clothing and have compatible GPS’s and radios. If volunteers do want to come, they have to sign in with our command post, get an assignment so we know who is out searching. Although we appreciate all the help we can get, we don’t need to worry about looking for lost searchers as well.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 10-12-16

Re: Press Release - Boat nearly capsizes, man tossed from boat

On 10-12-16 at about 12:05pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting that a boat almost capsized on the Rogue River Bar, tossing one of the passengers into the water. Marine Deputies responded with a patrol boat while other Sheriff’s Deputies and Officers from the Gold Beach Police Department went to the jetty area to assist. Sixty-one year old Rick Wier of Gold Beach owner and operator of the boat and his two passengers were heading out to sea to go fishing when the boat was struck by a breaking wave, rolling the boat over on its side almost capsizing it. Wier’s passenger, 74 year old Charles Pearson also of Gold Beach was tossed out of the boat when it was hit by the large breaking wave. Pearson was out far enough from the south jetty that attempts to throw him a rope met with negative results. Wier and another passenger were able to throw Pearson a line but he was not able to hold on but eventually they were able to get him back into the boat. The Marine Deputies, along with Captain Mick Espinoza, were able to get Pearson onto the Sheriff’s boat and took him to the Port docks where Cal Or life flight Ambulance crew were waiting. Pearson was attended to by the ambulance crew but refused medical treatment.

Media Release CORRECTION

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 10-10-16

Re: Press Release, Boat Capsized CORRECTION

On 10-09-2016 at about 1:46pm, Curry County Sheriffs Dispatch received a 911 call reporting a couple of boats that were attempting to cross the mouth of the Rogue River Bar while there were breaking waves across the entire mouth of the river. Marine and Search and Rescue Coordinator Sergeant Ted Heath responded to the South Jetty to assess the bar conditions.

At about 2:03pm, Sergeant Heath watched a boat come across from the inside of the South Jetty, turn to go towards the North Jetty and saw the boat get rolled over by a large wave throwing the two subjects, Michael Miller of Brookings Oregon, and Bruce Walker from Gold Beach, into the breaking surf.

Dispatch was notified to have the Coast Guard helicopter and Coast Guard Cutter to respond to the location while Sergeant Heath responded back to get the Sheriff’s Office patrol boat. Other Deputies responded to the South Jetty to assist and saw Miller and Walker clinging to the side of their capsized vessel.

At about 2:14pm, Sergeant Heath responded to the mouth of the river along with off duty Deputy Jared Gray in the Sheriff’s Patrol boat to attempt the rescue of Miller and Walker. The bar conditions were too extreme for crossing out into the ocean where Miller and Walker were.

Three local surfers, Luke Martinez, Rocky Burns and Drew Harper were just getting ready to go surfing when they witnessed the boat capsize and responded towards Miller and Walker on their surf boards. Martinez, Burns and Harper where successful in rescuing both Miller and Walker by swimming them back to shore on their surfboards. Both Miller and Walker had been in the water about fifty minutes by the time Martinez, Burns and Harper got them back to shore.

Miller was transported by ambulance to Curry General Hospital where he was treated for hypothermia. Walker was attended to by Cal Ore Ambulance personal at the scene and was deemed to be okay.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 10-10-16

Re: Press Release, Boat Capsized

On 10-09-2016 at about 1:46pm, Curry County Sheriffs Dispatch received a 911 call reporting a couple of boats that were attempting to cross the mouth of the Rogue River Bar while there were breaking waves across the entire mouth of the river. Marine and Search and Rescue Coordinator Sergeant Ted Heath responded to the South Jetty to assess the bar conditions.

At about 2:03pm, Sergeant Heath watched a boat come across from the inside of the South Jetty, turn to go towards the North Jetty and saw the boat get rolled over by a large wave throwing the two subjects, Michael Miller of Brookings Oregon, and Bruce Walker from Gold Beach, into the breaking surf.

Dispatch was notified to have the Coast Guard helicopter and Coast Guard Cutter to respond to the location while Sergeant Heath responded back to get the Sheriff’s Office patrol boat. Other Deputies responded to the South Jetty to assist and saw Miller and Walker clinging to the side of their capsized vessel.

At about 2:14pm, Sergeant Heath responded to the mouth of the river along with off duty Deputy Jared Gray in the Sheriff’s Patrol boat to attempt the rescue of Miller and Walker. The bar conditions were too extreme for crossing out into the ocean where Miller and Walker were.

Two local surfers, Luke Martinez and Rocky Burns were just getting ready to go surfing when they witnessed the boat capsize and responded towards Miller and Walker on their surf boards. Martinez and Burns where successful in rescuing both Miller and Walker by swimming them back to shore on their surfboards.

Miller was transported by ambulance to Curry General Hospital where he was treated for hypothermia. Walker was attended to by Cal Ore Ambulance personal at the scene and was deemed to be okay.

Luke Martinez and Rocky Burns are credited with saving the lives of Michael Miller and Bruce Walker because due to the bar conditions, other means of getting to them in a timely matter could have been the difference of life and death as the Coast Guard who were responding with a boat from Brookings and a helicopter from North Bend were still a ways out.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 09-22-16

Re: Press Release

NOTICE

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office wants the public to know that we sympathize with our community regarding the abandoned motorhomes that keep appearing along our county roads. It is frustrating for everyone when people think they can just dump their unwanted motorhomes, trailers and garbage alongside the roadways and walk away from them.

There are a few of these unsightly vehicles that have been abandoned around our county causing an eyesore and environmental hazards. We get calls on a daily basis and even though they are not on our priority list due to lack of resources to deal with them, we put effort into trying to find the responsible persons and hold them accountable. Most of the time, we are unable to find who the vehicles belong to so they sit just sit there becoming a target of vandalism. There are two of these motorhomes in particular that have been causing public concerns, one of which is parked at the intersection of Winchuck River Road and U.S. Highway 101 in Harbor and the other is parked near the old mill site on Jerry’s Flat Road in Gold Beach.

I contacted Ron Righetti of 10-10 towing and Ken Wold of Curry Transfer and Recycling regarding these vehicles. 10-10 Towing agreed to tow both these vehicles at no charge to CTR where CTR have offered to dispose of them at no charge. Both 10-10 Towing and CTR are good community partners and need to be commended for their assistance and generosity with removing these abandoned vehicles. It is very expensive to haul and dispose of these vehicles so we are very grateful to 10-10 Towing and CTR.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will continue to do our best in trying to find the persons responsible for dumping these vehicles and take the appropriate enforcement action.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 09-19-16

Re: Press Release

On 09-17-2016 at about 6:06pm, The Curry County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by Josephine County Search and Rescue for assistance in sending Curry County SAR members into the Illinois River Wilderness area from the Agness side in an attempt to locate a 36 year old female and her K-9 companion. Information was that the female had hiked in approximately 10 miles from the trail head at Oak Flats, near Agness, Oregon into Josephine County and had fallen off the trail, injuring herself. Thirty-six year old Jennifer Nicole Edwards from Vancouver Washington had fallen off the trail near the mouth of Silver Creek and had sustained substantial injuries. Edwards was able to “Text” her Fiancée, Matthew Gage, also from Vancouver, using a hand held satellite based rescue phone known as “In-reach” which gave Edwards GPS location.

Curry County SAR member, Ryan McGinnis hiked the narrow trail several hours in the dark to the location where he found Nicole Edwards at about 11:30pm. Edwards had fallen approximately sixty feet off the main trail into a dried up creek bed. McGinnis rendered first aid to Edwards who had sustained a laceration to the back of her head, as well as numerous lacerations to her body. McGinnis stayed the night there with Edwards awaiting the arrival of more search and rescue personnel the following morning.

On 09-18-16 at about 9:20am, Curry County Search and Rescue team led by SAR Coordinator Sergeant Ted Heath arrived at the Illinois River Trail Head where they met up with four Josephine County SAR members. Curry County SAR members, Dennis Hoffman and Andy Stubbs hiked the trail to the location where they met up with SAR member Ryan McGinnis and Nicole Edwards. Curry County SAR members Cam Lynn and Jordan Fanning along with Josephine County SAR members hiked into an area known as “Buzzards Roost” on the trail to relay radio communication and to assist if needed. The U.S. Coast Guard had also been contacted for assistance and they deployed a Helicopter from North Bend Air Station to assist in the rescue.

In order for the Coast Guard helicopter and rescue swimmer to be able to reach Edwards, SAR members had to move her across the Illinois River to a safe area. At about 1:50pm, SAR members assisted the Coast Guard in getting Edwards into a rescue stokes and raised to the helicopter. Edwards was then transported to a Grants Pass hospital where she was treated for her injuries. Edwards K-9 companion was brought back out by the SAR team and later released to Edwards family members.

During the hike back out of the area, a couple SAR members suffered mild heat exhaustion due to extreme heat conditions during the rescue mission. SAR members George Edwards and Ryan McGinnis went back in on the trail with dirt bikes to assist in getting everyone back out. I am very proud of our SAR team and their dedication. This is another perfect example of the professional teamwork between neighboring counties. Curry County is lucky to have a team of men and women who devote themselves to search and rescue missions and risk their lives, “So That Others May Live”.

Media Release

From: FTO Deputy Nat Hughes

Date: 08-30-16

Re: High Visibility Traffic Enforcement Labor Day Period

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office has been participating in a DUII grant supported by the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association, Oregon Department of Transportation and the National Highway Transportation Administration.

We are currently participating in the Labor Day High Visibility Enforcement Traffic Grant which started August 19th and runs through September 5th. So far, two deputies worked a total of 13 hours and made numerous traffic stops and contacts. Deputies issued seven warnings, one speeding citation, one careless driving citation and investigated one alcohol related traffic crash ending with a DUII arrest.

As we near the Labor Day weekend, please remember to use common sense when drinking. Don’t drive if you have been drinking. Let the sober driver drive. Remember, Sober means you haven’t been drinking.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 08-15-16

Re: Cliff Rescue, Harris Beach State Park

On 08-13-2016 at about 5:42pm the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call through the Brookings Police Department of a subject stranded on a rock at Harris Beach State Park Brookings, Oregon. Information was received that the subject wasn’t able to climb up or down, and was stranded on a small ledge approximately 50 feet above the ground, and 20 feet from the top of the shear face of the rock.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue team was called out to respond and SAR members from Gold Beach met up with other SAR members from the Brookings area. The Brookings Fire, Brookings Police, U.S. Coast Guard, Cal Ore Ambulance and Oregon State Parks personnel also responded to assist in rescuing the stranded subject. The weather was extremely foggy and assistance from the Coast Guard’s Helicopter in Coos Bay was not an option.

At about 8:21pm, SAR personnel and first responders set up a rope system and SAR member, Art Tarin was able to rappel down the face of the rock where he contacted and attached a safety harness to the stranded subject, twenty-five year old Richard Bailey from Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii and safely lowered him down to the beach below.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the Brookings Fire, Brookings Police, U.S. Coast Guard, State Parks and Cal-Ore ambulance for their assistance in this rescue.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 08-09-16

Re: Press Release

On 08-08-16, the Del Norte Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, National Parks, Yurok Police, State Parks, U.S. Forest Service, CALMMET and Curry County Sheriff’s Office participated in eradicating 11,992 mature marijuana plants believed to be a Cartel grow in the south east area of Curry County of Federal Forest lands. A pre-authorized search warrant was served at the location.

The marijuana grow was in a very remote area of Curry County just across from the California border where another large marijuana garden was also located. The marijuana grow had been detected by helicopter about a week earlier. Eradication teams were short hauled in to the grow area by helicopter and the plants were cut down and hauled back out to a landing zone by helicopter. The plants were then destroyed by use of a wood chipper.

Prior to being inserted into the grow area, the helicopter made several passes over the site and an armed ground team cleared the area to make it safe for the eradication team. Insertion teams located a camouflaged handmade living structure and evidence of weapons and chemicals in the grow site but did not find any suspects in the garden. It was obvious that whoever was tending to the marijuana had left prior to the eradication team arrival.

UPDATED MEDIA RELEASE

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 08-07-16

Re: Press Release UPDATE

On 08-07-16 at about 11:00am, the body of seventeen year old Ryan Merker was recovered by divers about 120’ from the plane wreckage in about fifty-five feet of water. Ryan was the last of the three passengers to be recovered from a plane crash that happened on July 4, 2016 about a half mile off shore from the Rainbow Rock just north of Brookings.

Dive crews left the port at 7:30am and started diving at about 8:15am. Two divers from Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, three divers from Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and one diver from Smith River California assisted the Curry County Sheriff’s Office in the search for Ryan Merker this morning. Josephine County Sheriff Dave Daniel and his Marine Deputy Ernie Fields assisted in the recovery by using their Marine Boat as a support boat, hauling dive gear. Curry County Sheriff John Ward and Marine Sergeant Ted Heath used the Curry County Marine Boat for dive gear and transporting a safety diver to the search area.

The dive crews dove several times and on their last dive, located Ryan Merker at the end of the selected search area, just beyond the 120’ rope used to guide divers and at about the time they needed to resurface as their air was running out. The divers marked the location and switched out air tanks to already used tanks and went back down to recover Ryan. Divers were successful in bringing Ryan back to the surface where he was then transported back to the Coast Guard Station in the Curry County Marine Boat and released to Redwood Memorial Services.

It is by the grace of God that we were able to find Ryan after being missing in the ocean for over a month. There is no explanation on how we were able to find Ryan other than unwavering determination and some help from above. I have to give credit to the divers who never gave up even after finding the first two bodies of John and Max Belnap two weeks earlier. I can’t thank some of the members of our community enough for all their support over this past month while we searched for the plane and passengers. I also can’t thank enough the Sheriff’s Offices around the state that sent resources to aid in the search, for without their help, this outcome would not have been possible.

On July 28-Aug 1, 2016 Curry County Sheriff’s Office participated in a High Visibility Enforcement grant for Cape Blanco Music Festival, sponsored by Oregon State Sheriff’s Association, Oregon Department of Transportation and National Highway Transportation Administration.

Deputies, Officers, Oregon Liquor Control Commission Agents and State Troopers, not working the grant, collectively issued over 20 minor in possession citations, arrested multiple DUII’s, responded to multiple motor vehicle crashes, domestic violence calls, disturbances, fights and medical issues over those same dates with regard to Cape Blanco Music Festival. Most if not all were alcohol related. Thank you to Cal/Or Life Flight medics and all fire personnel that assisted on these calls.

On 07/31/2016, at approximately 11:30 pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, along with Port Orford Fire Department, and Cal/Ore. Ambulance responded the “General Admissions Parking area” on Elk River Road at approximately MP 2.5 for a reported ATV crash with injuries. The incident involved two parties, the driver Adam Levenson and his female passenger, Chloe Gast. The location of the crash was a field across the river from the “General Admissions Parking/Camping” area for the Cape Blanco Music Festival.

Upon arriving on scene deputies were directed by witnesses to a pasture across the river from the general admission parking. Deputies and witnesses had to cross the Elk River to locate Gast, who was found next to an ATV, approximately 25 feet down an unimproved embankment on the north side of the Elk River. Gast was found to have non-life threatening injuries, but limited mobility.

Levenson the driver of the ATV was still on scene and assisting in directing emergency personnel to Gast’s location. Gast had to be manually lifted up the embankment in order to receive proper medical care. Gast was then driven back across the river by sheriff’s deputies and medical personnel on scene. Gast was immediately transported to Curry General Hospital to receive treatment for her injuries.

During the initial investigation it was learned that Levenson had been giving rides on an ATV in the general admission parking area and across the river in an unimproved pasture. Levenson reported taking Gast on a ride at approximately 11:00 pm. The ATV involved was a 4x4 all-terrain ranch style vehicle, and equipped with a light. At the time of the crash neither subject was wearing a helmet or any other protective riding gear.

Levenson described taking Gast across the Elk River at a low spot and then riding in a pasture on the north side of the river. There they rode for approximately ¼ mile to ½ mile at speeds of 25 – 30 miles an hour. Levenson admitted to not knowing the area where they were riding and to following the tree line next to the river.

Levenson stated as they were following the tree line, he lost control of the ATV, crashing over an embankment, and landing at the bottom of the embankment next to the Elk River. Levenson stated the ATV rolled once and landed on top of both riders. Levenson was able to get the ATV off both riders and then cross the river to summons help. Levenson left Gast at the crash site based on her limited mobility.

Shortly after requesting help, sheriff’s deputies and emergency personnel arrived on scene. After Gast was removed from the scene, Levenson was evaluated for injuries. Levenson refused medical treatment and was subsequently arrested for Assault 3 and Reckless Endangering based on his actions. This investigation will continue and additional charges are possible. At this time speed, the rider’s inexperience, and possibly intoxicants may have been combined factors.

Following his arraignment on August 1, 2016, Levenson was given a conditional release by the courts, with a future court date. There is no further information available at this time for Gast’s medical condition.

On July 28-Aug 1, 2016 Curry County Sheriff’s Office will be participating in a High Visibility Enforcement grant sponsored by Oregon State Sheriff’s Association, Oregon Department of Transportation and National Highway Transportation Administration. The Sheriff’s Office will be working the Cape Blanco Music Festival with this High Visibility Enforcement Grant and will have extra patrols specifically geared towards stopping impaired drivers, careless, reckless and other aggressive driving habits.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind everyone that DUII is enforceable on premises open to the public which includes the camping areas as well as any road, highway and/or street. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone to enjoy this event, but to do so responsibly.

On July 23, 2016 at approximately 2:30 am the Curry County Sheriff’s Office responded to a single vehicle crash on Hunter Creek Road at approximately MP 5. The initial responding deputy determined the crash involved one vehicle with three occupants. The vehicle a 1998 Chevrolet pickup was being operated by Ricardo Rangel, who at the time of the crash had two occupants. At this location Rangel lost control of his vehicle and slide into an embankment.

At the scene it was determined that Rangel had been operating his pickup while under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol) and that speed was also a factor in the crash. As result of the crash both occupants in Rangel’s vehicle were transported to and treated at Curry General Hospital for injuries. Both passengers were also found to have consumed alcohol. Prior to the crash Rangel and his passengers had attended a party at “Sugar Loaf Bar” on Hunter Creek Road.

Further investigations determined there had been a large gathering of minors at “Sugar Loaf Bar” on Hunter Creek Road. Reports indicate that many of the minors had been consuming large quantities of alcohol and following the crash many had fled the scene. Leaving behind an active campfire and a large amount of debris to include; empty alcohol containers. Rangel was found to have a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .12%

There was an additional minor cited at the scene of the crash for Minor in Possession of Alcohol by consumption. At this time this investigation is still active and the Curry County Sheriff’s Office is seeking any information as to who might have provided the alcohol for this gathering and any other information regarding the debris left at the scene.

On 07-25-16 at about 11:02am, the Brookings Police Department transferred a 911 call to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office from Robert Haas of Brookings, stating that while hiking the House Rock Trail along the ocean north of Brookings, he slipped off the trail and was about three hundred and fifty feet above the ocean. Haas stated that he was holding on but didn’t think he could hold on much longer before falling to the rocks below.

Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue and Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the location and found Haas about one hundred and fifty feet below the trail on a steep side hill. Cape Ferrelo Fire and OSP also responded to assist. SAR set up a rope system and SAR member Ryan McGinnis rappelled down to Haas where he secured him with a safety harness. McGinnis and the rest of the SAR team were able to get Haas back to safety.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 07-22-16

Re: Press Release Plane Search Update

On 07-21-16 at about 8:45am, after seventeen days of searching off the coast just north of Brookings, search and dive teams from the Sheriff’s Offices of Curry County, Josephine County, Clackamas County, Jackson County and Douglas County, Del Norte County along with Side Scan Sonar operators Gene and Sandy Ralston of Idaho, located the missing plane and one passenger just off the coast of Rainbow Rock, Brookings Or., in about fifty five feet of water a half mile off shore. Dive crews recovered the body of one of the passengers next to the wreckage and then the body was transported back to the Port of Brookings Harbor and released to Redwood Memorial of Brookings.

On 07-22-16 at about 7:30am search and dive teams returned to the location of the wrecked plane and after about forty-five minutes of searching, located a second person about thirty feet from the wreckage. Dive crews from Clackamas County recovered the body and we then transported back to the Port of Brookings Harbor where the body was released to Redwood Memorial of Brookings. It is unknown at this time the identity of the second person found.

Dive crews were not able to locate the third missing person on that particular dive and had to suspend the search for the rest of the day due to rough ocean conditions and high winds.

Families have been notified of everything so far. We plan on trying to make another dive around the wreckage to look for the third missing person when the ocean conditions get better.

This has been an exhausting and taxing search and it has taken a great deal of resources from around the state and also from Idaho. I need to give a shout out to Dan Bratten of Cal Ore Life Flight and their helicopter for his help in pin-pointing a general area for the search. Also I would like to thank the following community supporters: Driftwood R.V. Park for donating a space free of charge to the Ralston’s of Idaho for their stay here. Harbor Fire Department for filling up all the divers air tanks at no charge. South Coast Lumber for donating the time of two of their Master Electricians who were able to repair the sonar equipment on the Ralston’s boat so they could continue to search with sonar. Bod and Dave Snazuk of Beach Front Best Western for their donation to cover all travel expenses of the Ralstons. Les Schwab Tires for donating several old tire rims that were used as anchor points. I also want to thank all others who assisted or supported our efforts to bring closure to the Belnap and Merker families.

On July 12, 2016 at approximately 9:00 am the Curry County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a call from a citizen in Port Orford, stating they had witnessed a stolen vehicle out of Medford Oregon near Hamlet Street. This information was provided to all local law enforcement agencies and a search of the area was conducted immediately after the information was received and throughout the day without success in locating the stolen vehicle. The vehicle was described as a 1999 Chevrolet S10 Blazer, white in color, with Oregon License Plates. Additional information included a description of the operator, a white male adult, with long hair.

On July 13, 2016 at approximately 9:30 am the City of Gold Beach Police Department notified Curry County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch that they had seen a vehicle matching the description of the stolen vehicle from Port Orford travelling north through the City of Gold Beach. Gold Beach PD attempted to overtake the vehicle northbound out of the city limits and could not locate the vehicle on Hwy 101.

Curry County Sheriff’s Office Deputies began searching the areas of Edson Creek, North Bank Rogue, and Jerry’s Flat Road. At approximately 10:00 am a vehicle matching the description of stolen vehicle passed the Sheriff’s Office Captain on Jerry’s Flat Road near the Old Mill Site. The vehicle was being driven by a lone white male adult. The Sheriff’s Captain who was stationary at the time pulled out on to Jerry’s Flat Road in an attempt to overtake the vehicle and determine if this was the stolen vehicle as described the day before in Port Orford. As the Captain pulled out the white Chevrolet Blazer sped up to speeds exceeding 80 miles per hour. At this point it was obvious the vehicle and occupant, later identified as Robert Aldridge, was attempting to evade being stopped.

Deputies learned from witnesses that the Aldridge had crossed the Lobster Creek Bridge at a high rate of speed. The vehicle was not seen on the North Bank Rogue so deputies continued on Lobster Creek Road as it turned to gravel heading towards the Lobster Creek Youth Camp. Deputies were able to follow fresh tire tracks in the gravel that indicated a vehicle was driving at a high rate of speed and extremely reckless.

While following the vehicle tracks a Sheriff’s Deputy stopped and talked with Warren Halcumb and Heather Wainscott on Lobster Creek Road. Both Halcumb and Wainscott denied any knowledge of the stolen vehicle being driven by Aldridge and they denied any knowledge about Zachery Clough, who had been associated with the stolen vehicle the day before. A short time after contact with Halcumb and Wainscott, Aldridge and the stolen Chevrolet Blazer were located on Starkweather property approximately 2 miles below the Lobster Creek Youth Camp. Aldridge was taken into custody without incident and the stolen vehicle was confirmed and recovered for Medford PD.

Approximately 30 minutes after Aldridge was taken into custody, Wainscott and Halcumb were re-contacted, at an address on Blue Bird Lane in Gold Beach. After a search of this residence Clough was located and taken into custody for a probation violation detainer. While taking Clough into custody, he was found to be in the possession of approximately 18 grams of methamphetamines, digital scales, and a small amount of cash.

During both contacts with Wainscott and Halcumb, they were adamant that Clough was not with them, and they were not assisting him or concealing him from law enforcement. Deputies later determined through their investigation that Wainscott and Halcumb had assisted Clough in hiding from law enforcement, knowing he had an active detainer for his arrest. Based on this information Halcumb and Wainscott were taken into custody without incident for Hindering Prosecution. Wainscott received an additional charge for Possession of Methamphetamine after she was found to have methamphetamine in her possession while being taken into custody.

As this investigation continues both Clough and Aldridge have been charged for Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle, as both subjects were seen in control of the stolen vehicle at different times on July 12th, and July 13, 2016.

Contact information: Cpt. Michael “Mick” Espinoza (541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 07-13-16

Re: Status Update Press Release Plane Crash

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of Josephine County, Douglas County, Jackson County, Coos County, Klamath County, Oregon Emergency Management, and U.S. Coast Guard continue to search for the small plane and three passengers that was reported missing on July 5, 2016 after he took off from Brookings with a flight plan to Grants Pass. Search crews using side scan sonar technology have searched a large area just off the coast of Brookings, Or., near Rainbow Rock where it is believed the plane crashed into the ocean. Search crews have spent many hours on the ocean by boats trying to locate the plane and it’s passengers, John Belnap, Max Belnap and Ryan Merker all of Grants Pass, Or. Dan Bratten of Cal Or Life Flight has been instrumental to the search by using their helicopter to search the area by air. Search crews continue to locate what is believed to be aviation fuel on top of the water in the same general area where also a T-Shirt later identified by family members belonging to John Belnap was found by divers on the bottom of the ocean in about fifty-five feet of water. Other areas of interest have been searched by divers as well.

Due to a weather front that came in with a small craft advisory issued by the Coast Guard, search crews were not able to get back out to search until Tuesday July 12. On Tuesday search crews with the assistance of Gene and Sandy Ralston of Idaho who are considered experts in the use of side scan sonar, continued to search for the plane. Gene and Sandy Ralston using their own sophisticated equipment and boat marked areas of interest and divers from the assisting counties dove on those areas. Again, a weather front came in making it very difficult to continue searching with the sonar and search crews had to suspend the search for the rest of the day.

On Wednesday July 13, search crews left the Harbor Sport Docks at about 6:00am and attempted to get to the search area but the seas were way too rough and had to turn back fifteen minutes into the trip. Winds reported were to be 25 kt for the rest of the day along with eight to ten foot swells and poor conditions to continue through at least Sunday July 17.

Search crews from the listed counties have all put in many hours in attempting to locate the missing plane and passenger. We will continue to do so until we run out of resources. Again we send out deepest condolences to the family and friends of the Belnap and Merker families and friends.

Curry County Sheriff’s Office participated in a High Visibility Traffic Enforcement grant for the 4th of July Holiday form July 1st-July 4th. During that time, 2 Deputies worked 12 hours, making 5 stops resulting in 3 traffic citations; failing to drive with in lane of travel and careless driving x 2. A few warnings were also issued.

During those same dates the Curry County Sheriff’s Office responded to more than 30 emergency calls for service. Those included:

Thank you to all who enjoyed the holiday weekend and do so safely and responsibly. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office next High Visibility Enforcement will be the Cape Blanco Music Festival July 28-31, 2016.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 07-05-16

Re: Press Release Missing Plane and Passengers

On 07-05-16, at about 4:00am, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call from FAA out of Seattle Washing asking to check local airports for a missing plane. Cheryl Belnap of Grants Pass Oregon called the FAA when her Husband John Belnap, her seventeen year old son and another young male passenger had not arrived back in Grants Pass as expected.

The information was that a Cessna 172 left the Brookings Airport between 10:30pm and 11:00pm on 07-04-16 with a flight plan to return to Grants Pass, Or. According to Seattle Flight services the last radar ping was within a few miles of the Brookings Airport. The U.S. Coast Guard was asked to assist in searching as well as the Civil Air Patrol and they searched the area between Grants Pass and Brookings according to the flight plan.

Cal Ore Life Flight met Sheriff Ward at the Brookings Airport and flew the area within a fifteen mile radius. At about 11:00am, two beachcombers contacted the Brookings Police Department and gave them a backpack they had found on the beach at Lone Ranch State Park along with a few other items including identification. The items were identified as belonging to the missing plane and passengers. It appeared the items had floated ashore indicating that the plane must have crashed into the ocean. Lone Ranch State Park is about four miles north of Brookings along US Highway 101.

Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue members walked the coastline from Whaleshead State Park to Harris Beach State Park looking for any items or indications of a plane crash. SAR members did find several other items that are believed to have been from the plane. The US Coast Guard continued to search the area off shore and plan to continue the search throughout the evening.

Josephine County Sheriff Dave Daniel and his SAR Coordinator, Deputy Cory Krauss responded to Curry County to provide assistance as John Belnap is a Josephine County SAR member. The families have been notified of the situation regarding the items that had washed up on shore. With the assistance of the US Coast Guard and the Brookings Police Department, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office will continue to investigate and continue to search the area.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office expresses our deepest sympathies to the families, friends and communities of Grants Pass and Josephine County for the pain and sorrow they are going through. Our prayers are with them.

We love to celebrate the 4th of July with family, friends, food and fireworks, but all too often the festivities turn tragic on the nation's roads. The fact is this iconic American holiday is also one of the deadliest holidays of the year due to impaired-driving crashes.

In 2014, over the 4th of July holiday (6 p.m. July 3rd to 5:59 a.m. July 7th), 164 people were killed in crashes involving at least one driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. Those preventable deaths make up 41% of the 397 people killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the 4th of July period.

On behalf of the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, we express our deepest condolences to the Belnap and Merker families. We will continue to do what we can to bring back the last lost family member.

Media ReleaseFrom: Sheriff John WardDate: 05-31-16Re: Press Release

On 05-24-16 at about 7:00pm, Deputies from the Curry County Sheriff’s Office and Del Norte Sheriff’s Office along with Officers from the California Highway Patrol arrested twenty-five year old Cody Center of Brookings after he ran from Deputies in the Smith River area near the Salmon Harbor Trailer Park. Center was arrested on two valid warrants out of Curry County and he was a suspect in numerous thefts from vehicles in the Brookings Harbor area. The following day after Center’s arrest in Smith River, Deputies located Center’s campsite in close proximity to where he was taken into custody and stolen property was recovered.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office had been investigating numerous complaints of theft from vehicles in the Harbor area for several weeks prior and through collected evidence and investigative leads, had developed Cody Center as a suspect.

On 05-13-16 at about 12:40am, Sheriff Ward had confronted Center who was on a bike in front of the Harbor 101 Bar and Grill as he had fit the description of photo evidence from a couple reported theft cases the night before. Center fled on the bike after being told to stop and a short distance later dumped the bike and took off on foot.

On 05-26-16 after his arrest in Smith River on 05-24-16, Center was transported to the Curry County Jail and lodged on the Curry County Warrants.

On 05-27-16, while at the Curry County Jail, Center admitted to taking items from at least twenty cars in the Harbor area and subsequently, Deputies recovered a few items where Center said he had stashed them in the brush in that area.

Center was lodged in the Curry County Jail on several counts of Unlawful Entry Into Motor Vehicle (UEMV), Theft in the First Degree and Fail to Obey a Police Officer. All information and evidence submitted the Curry County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will have extra patrols over the Memorial Day weekend, which takes place from May 27-30, 2016. The additional patrols are part of the High Visibility Traffic Enforcement program, which utilizes grant funds provided by NHTSA, ODOT, and OSSA to increase our patrols. This allows us to assign extra deputies to patrol throughout the county, working various shifts, to keep our local roads and highways safe. They will be looking for impaired drivers, aggressive driving and other violations that could endanger others or themselves.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone to enjoy the holiday weekend, but asks that you do so responsibly. If you drink, don’t drive, and remember buzz driving is drunk driving.

On 04/29/2016 a detective from the Curry County Sheriff, along with members of the Curry County Juvenile Department followed up on leads regarding information that Eva Andres was camping somewhere in Jackson or Josephine County with Scott Olive. Andres, who had run away from her residence in Langlois, Oregon for the third time in one year, had not been seen or heard from by relatives or close associates, since January of 2016.

Based on information developed from various sources, investigators were able to develop leads that allowed them to ultimately find Adres with Olive, in the Rogue River RV Park in Jackson County. Andres was previously entered in a National Law Enforcement Data Base as a runaway/missing person was immediately detained. Olive a known associate was later arrested for Custodial Interference once investigators learned that Olive had been concealing Andres’ identity and her locations so others would not become suspicious of her age and/or their relationship.

On previous occasions when Andres had runaway, she was found in Grants Pass with Scott Olive, and on another occasion she was located in Idaho Falls, Idaho where Olive once lived.

At this point with the assistance of the Oregon State Police and Jackson County Sheriff’s Office the investigation continues. This could result in additional criminal charges for Olive and possibly others who may have assisted Olive or engaged in any unlawful activities involving Andres.

A safety plan will be put into place for Andres and her family by the Juvenile Department and Department of Human Services. Olive was lodged in the Jackson County Jail on the mentioned charge.

Contact information: Captain Michael “Mick” Espinoza

(541) 247-3200

Media ReleaseFrom: Sheriff John WardDate: 05-02-16Re: Press Release

On Friday April 29, 2016 at about 2:45pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a Gold Beach resident reporting that while they were operating their boat near Cole Riffle on the Rogue River, they located the body of a white male adult alongside the river that was partially submerged between two rocks. At that time there had been no reports of missing persons fitting the description given by the caller.

Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the area and launched their marine boat at the Quosanta Creek boat ramp which is about 14 miles upriver from Gold Beach. Approximately two river miles upriver from the Quosanta Creek boat ramp, deputies located the fully clothed body of a white male adult near Cole Riffle and transported him back down river to the Quosanta Creek boat ramp. From there the deceased person was transported back to Gold Beach and released to Redwood Memorial from Brookings. There was no evidence or indication at the time for the cause of death other than possible drowning.

Subsequent investigation into the death determined the deceased person was thirty-four year old Thomas Glenn Moore of Gold Beach, Or. Ashley Rasmussen who is Moore’s significant other was contacted later that evening and said she and Thomas Moore had been camping with their two children and a friend Christopher Haynes from Chiloquin, Or., the night before at a spot near Cole Riffle. Rasmussen said at some point around 2:00am, Moore had walked away from their camp spot in the dark and did not come back. Rasmussen stated the following morning after daylight they looked for Moore around camp and then drove up and down the Agness Road and had been searching all day.

The next of kin as well as the Curry County District Attorney have been notified and the Curry County Medical Examiner has scheduled an autopsy to help determine the cause of death. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office is continuing the investigation.

In November 2015, after taking a missing person report from Ashley Rasmussen, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office had listed Thomas Moore as a missing person through the National Data Base and he was found to be ok in the Coos Bay area the next day after he was reported missing.

On 01/20/2016 the Curry County Sheriff’s received information that Eva Andres had run away from her residence in Langlois, Oregon for the third time in one year. Andres was entered in a National Law Enforcement Data Base as a runaway/missing person. On previous occasions when Andres had runaway, she was found in Grants Pass with an associate Scott Olive, and on another occasion she was located in Idaho.

Attempts to locate Andres have met with negative results. At one point while making inquiries into Andre’s location, it was believed she may be in the Central Oregon area. This information was passed on to Deschutes County. Deschutes County was not able to verify the location for Andres.

It was reported that Andres was last seen on 1/19/2016 at approximately 8:00 pm or 8:30 pm at her residence in Langlois, Or.by her sister. On the morning of 1/20/2016 Andre’s sister found her gone from the residence, prompting her to report Andres as a runaway to the Sheriff’s Office. Prior to Andres disappearance she was last seen by family wearing a long sleeved hoodie shirt with red/navy blue stripes, blue jeans, and shoes that were fuzz lined. Andres is described as a white female, 5’3” in height, weighing approximately 160 lbs., she was last known to have black hair with red bangs.

Attempts to contact Andre’s associates for her location have met with negative results. Since Andre’s disappearance from her residence, she has not been in contact with her family or other known associates. At this time the Curry County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance with any information they can provide regarding Andres. There has been previous information about Andres placing her in situations that could jeopardize her safety. These reports have prompted the assistance of the FBI and other law enforcement agencies to investigate claims potential criminal activity. Our investigation continues along with the assistance of the Curry County Juvenile Department and the Brooking Police Department. All law enforcement agencies in locations where we believe Andres may have associates will be contacted for assistance. Please see the attached flier for Andres. Reports of any information regarding Andres are encouraged to be made immediately to Curry County 911.

Contact information: Captain Michael “Mick” Espinoza

(541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 04-01-16

Re: Press Release

On 03-22-16 at about 7:25am, Pete Bussman, owner of Sixes River Trucking and Excavating Company reported to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office that sometime during the late evening hours of 03-21-16, someone had stolen his Kobelco Excavator from their job site about six miles east of U.S. Highway 101 on the Euchre Creek Road north of Gold Beach. Bussman reported that someone had broken open the door and drove the excavator about six miles on gravel and pavement roads causing approximately $45,000 in damages to the Excavator.

Sheriff Sergeant Ted Heath responded and met with Bussman at the excavator that was now parked in the yard of a vacant property located about a half mile east of Highway 101 on Euchre Creek Road. It was determined there was extensive damage to the Final Drives of the Excavator. It was also determined that there was extensive damage to the roadway on Euchre Creek Road from the excavator being operated on the roadway. At this time there was no suspect information and the case was turned over to Sheriff’s Forest Deputy Jared Gray who continued the investigation.

On 03-31-16 at about 4:00pm, Deputy Gray arrested forty-seven year old Thomas Aaron Remy in connection to the stolen excavator. Investigative leads and interviews provided evidence that Remy had stolen the excavator and drove it about five miles causing the damage to the machine. Remy admitted during an interview with Deputy Gray that he did in fact take the excavator without permission.

Thomas Remy, who is on a current Conditional Release from the Curry County Jail for unrelated charges and on Post-Prison Supervision, was lodged in the Curry County Jail on UUMV, Aggravated Theft in the First Degree and Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree.

All information was provided to the Curry County District Attorney’s Office and further charges may be pending.

On 03-22-16 at about 7:25am, Pete Bussman, owner of Sixes River Trucking and Excavating Company reported to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office that sometime during the late evening hours of 03-21-16, someone had stolen his Kobelco Excavator from their job site about six miles east of U.S. Highway 101 on the Euchre Creek Road north of Gold Beach. Bussman reported that someone had broken open the door and drove the excavator about six miles on gravel and pavement roads causing approximately $45,000 in damages to the Excavator.

Sheriff Sergeant Ted Heath responded and met with Bussman at the excavator that was now parked in the yard of a vacant property located about a half mile east of Highway 101 on Euchre Creek Road. It was determined there was extensive damage to the Final Drives of the Excavator. It was also determined that there was extensive damage to the roadway on Euchre Creek Road from the excavator being operated on the roadway. At this time there was no suspect information and the case was turned over to Sheriff’s Forest Deputy Jared Gray who continued the investigation.

On 03-31-16 at about 4:00pm, Deputy Gray arrested forty-seven year old Thomas Aaron Remy in connection to the stolen excavator. Investigative leads and interviews provided evidence that Remy had stolen the excavator and drove it about five miles causing the damage to the machine. Remy admitted during an interview with Deputy Gray that he did in fact take the excavator without permission.

Thomas Remy, who is on a current Conditional Release from the Curry County Jail for unrelated charges and on Post-Prison Supervision, was lodged in the Curry County Jail on UUMV, Aggravated Theft in the First Degree and Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree.

All information was provided to the Curry County District Attorney’s Office and further charges may be pending.

Media Release

From: Lt. Michael “Mick” EspinozaDate: March 31, 2016

Regarding: Community Service Program

Agencies: Curry County Sheriff’s Office, City of Brookings Police Department, Curry County Circuit Court, and Curry County District Attorney Everett Dial.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the community’s assistance to establish a list of willing organizations who would allow offenders to complete community service hours as a part of their sentencing. Per Oregon Revised Statue 137.126 (1) Community service means uncompensated labor for an agency whose purpose is to enhance physical or mental stability, environmental quality or the social welfare. (2) Agency means a nonprofit organization or public body agreeing to accept community service from offenders and to report on the progress of ordered community service to the court or its delegate.

This community service program will begin initially with the City of Brookings Police Department. Thanks to Brookings Police Chief Chris Wallace who at a Local Public Safety Coordinating Council meeting not only requested to be a part of this program, he in fact offered his agencies resources to support the program. District Attorney Everett Dial also voiced his support for the program and wants to support the Sheriff’s Office and Curry County Circuit Courts efforts to get the program underway.

Community Service is another means to hold those sentenced for non-violent offenses accountable, while reducing the possibility or amount of jail time they would have to serve. Instead offenders could be sentenced to fines, fees, and community service hours providing them an opportunity to give back to their community for their criminal acts. For this program to be successful the Curry County Sheriff’s Office needs to establish a list of agencies and/or non-profit organizations throughout the county who are willing to partner and become viable option for offender to complete their community service hours. This will not be a supervised work crew and only non-violent offenders will be allowed to participate and benefit from the program.

Once the program is established the Curry County Sheriff’s Office will contract with a vendor who specializes in the tracking of offender hours being completed or not completed. This will allow the Sheriff’s Office, Courts, the DA, and other support organizations a method to easily track the offender’s progress and make reports to the DA and Courts regarding compliance or non-compliance.

It is the goal for all those involved in the program to provide for another means of accountability for select offenders, to limit the amount of jail time required for certain offenses, and to enhance our communities with volunteer work. We also believe this can help to lower recidivism among certain offenders.

If you are interested in participating or have more questions please contact Lt. Espinoza at 541 247-3200. Keep in mind this program is only available for public agencies and non-profit organizations. Once we have established a list of viable partners the Sheriff’s Office will host a meeting to present how the program will work, the responsibilities, and seek input from our community partners.

Prepared by: Lt. Michael “Mick” Espinoza

Contact: (541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 03-24-16

Re: Press Release

On 03-23-16 at about 4:07pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a Port Orford resident reporting that while walking along the beach south of Port Orford between Rocky Point and Humbug, he found the remains of a human male body that was in a driftwood pile along the shoreline.

The Port Orford Police contacted the reporting person at their City Hall and determined through conversation that the location of the body would be difficult to get to. The Oregon State Police were notified and responded along with the Curry County Sheriff. Responding officers arrived to the area and walked about ¾ of a mile down the beach from Rocky Point to locate the body that had been reported. Due to the condition of the body, it was apparent that the body had been there for quite some time and there was no way to identify the person at that time other than being a male adult. It was determined due to the location of the body that additional resources would be needed to recover the remains.

Two Oregon State Police Troopers photographed the scene and with help from Sheriff’s Deputies prepared the body for removal. Several members of the Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue team arrived and used a stokes, rope gear and a portable power winch to carry the body about three hundred yards up a steep brushy hill from the beach location to the highway above where the body was released to Redwood Memorial from Brookings.

The Oregon State Police are continuing the investigation to determine the identity of the person and have sent out notices to all law enforcement agencies in Oregon and California to check for any reported missing persons.

Anyone having information regarding the possible identity of the person should contact the Oregon State Police.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 03-17-2016

Re: Press Release

On 03-16-16 at about 12:31pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from Marcia Bernard of Gold Beach, reporting that she was walking near the beach on the south side of the south jetty of the Rogue River when she saw a woman walk out into the surf. Bernard reported that the woman appeared to have walked out intentionally and then was swept out into the breaking surf.

Personnel from the Curry County Sheriff’s Office and the Gold Beach Police Department responded to the south jetty and arrived within a few minutes of the call. Deputies and Officers traversed the large slippery rocks to get to a vantage point on the jetty and spotted the woman face down in the heavy surf. A call was placed to the U.S. Coast Guard for assistance who was going to send a helicopter from the North Bend Air Station. The mouth of the river was too treacherous to get a boat across due to the breaking twelve foot waves all across the mouth of the river. Several members of the Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue water rescue team responded to the scene. Sheriff Ward, Lieutenant Espinoza and Gold Beach Police Chief Andrews jointly coordinated the rescue efforts from the shore line and jetty. The heavy surf conditions made it difficult to keep a visual on the woman in the water. SAR member Ryan McGinnis suited up in a dry suit and used a floatation board to swim out to find the woman mostly submerged and was able to attach a line to her. McGinnis was then able to get the woman back to the jetty rocks where SAR member George Edwards had also entered the water to assist. Both McGinnis and Edwards were able to pull the lifeless body of the woman to the beach while fighting a strong rip current.

While on the beach, Cal Or Life Flight ambulance personnel and members of the Gold Beach Fire Department started CPR. By that time the woman had been face down floating in the surf for about fifty minutes. The woman was transported to Curry General Hospital where members of the fire department continued assisting with CPR. At the hospital, emergency crews were able to get a pulse on the female victim and she was then flown to OHSU in Portland where she was later pronounced deceased.

The victim was a fifty-two year old female listed as a transient out of Gold Beach. The name of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The Gold Beach Police Department will continue the death investigation.

The joint leadership and cooperation between all agencies that assisted in this rescue effort was impressive. A special recognition to Sheriff Communication Deputy DJ Storns who was the only dispatch deputy on at the time, for getting the information from the 911 caller, providing it to first responders, coordinating all resources, paging out Cal Or Ambulance, the Gold Beach Fire Department while handling several other unrelated emergency calls, radio traffic and telephones.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 3-16-16

Re: Press Release

On 03-16-16 at about 9:21am, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call from the camp host of Foster Bar in Agness, reporting that the owner of the Wild River Lodge located a human body that was stuck in some brush just above the water’s edge about two miles above the Foster Bar Camp ground near what is commonly known as Burns Rapids on the Rogue River.

Curry County Marine Deputy Walter Scherbarth along with two deputies responded to the area by boat and located the body. Deputies recovered the body of a male subject and transported him back down to Cougar Lane in Agness where the body was released to Redwood Memorial out of Brookings.

After further investigation, it was determined the deceased person was eighty-four year old Donald Dubose of Grants Pass, Or., who had gone missing from his residence in Grants Pass on 02-18-16. Dubose apparently suffered from Alzheimer’s and had walked away from the assisted living facility he was living at. Dubose was listed as a missing person in Josephine County and the Josephine County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue had done an extensive search for Mr. Debose. It was apparent that Mr. Debose had been in the river for some time.

The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office has done the notification for next of kin and will follow-up on the investigation on their end.

Media Release

From: Deputy Nat Hughes

Date: Monday, March 14, 2016

Re: Pre High Visibility Event - March 17, 2016

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will be participating in a High Visibility Traffic Enforcement grant through the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association, Oregon Department of Transportation, and National Highway Transportation Administration on March 17, 2016 for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office wants everyone to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day festivities, but asks that you do so responsibly by utilizing local taxi services, a sober friend or designated driver. Please do not drive after using intoxicating substances. Remember, buzzed driving is impaired driving. No life is worth that chance!

Agencies Involved: Curry County Sheriff’s Office and City of Brookings Police Department

ARRESTED:

Amy Maryanksi Age: 45

Harbor, Or.

Charges:

Possession of a Controlled Substance Methamphetamine, Delivery of a Controlled Substance Methamphetamine, and Conspiracy to Deliver a Controlled Substance Methamphetamine.

Sheryl Lee Childress Age: 43

Brookings, Or.

Charges:

Possession of a Controlled Substance Methamphetamine and Frequenting a Place Where Controlled Substances are Use and Sold.

INCIDENT:

On 3/8/2016 Detectives from the City of Brooking Police Department and Curry County Sheriff’s Office conducted an undercover drug investigation involving Amy Maryanski. This investigation began with information that Maryanski was involved in the possession and sales of methamphetamines. Based on this information; detectives were able purchase a user quantity of methamphetamines from Maryanski.

Following the purchase of methamphetamines from Maryanski, detectives applied for and were granted a search warrant for Maryanski’s residence, 98131 West Benham Lane in Harbor, Oregon. On 3/9/2016 law enforcement officers from the City of Brookings Police Department and Curry County Sheriff’s Office served the mentioned search at Maryanski’s residence. During the execution of the search warrant small amounts of methamphetamines were located, along with scales, packaging materials, and other paraphernalia items used for the ingestion of methamphetamines.

Maryanski and Childress were present at the residence when the search warrant was executed. Based on the items found and previous undercover during investigation, both Maryanski and Childress were taken into custody for the mentioned charges and lodged at the Curry County Jail. This investigation is continuing and there could be additional arrested.

On February 11, 2016 the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received reports of a telephonic scam taking place in Curry County. The scam involves an unknown male caller who has reported to be a Captain with the Sheriff’s Office and on another call identified himself as Lieutenant Johnson. The unknown male suspect is telling victims that they owe a large sum of money and if they do not pay the money a bench warrant will be issued for their arrest. It is also reported the male suspect has asked for a meeting to take place at an undisclosed location to exchange the money.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office does not call to collect fines, we do not threaten enforcement actions, and we will not ask persons to meet us to pay a fine. All official business from our agency will occur at our main Sheriff’s Office, the Harbor Sub-station or in person. We encourage all reports of suspicious activity matching this information to be reported immediately. We are currently investigating this incident and looking into leads to identify the suspect(s).

If you receive a phone call matching this activity do not give out personal information or agree to a meeting and contact the Sheriff’s Office at 541 247-3242.

CONTINUED REPORTS OF ATTEMPTED TELEPHONIC SCAMS

Since the initial media release the Curry County Sheriff’s Office continues to receive reports of a male suspect attempting to scam Citizen’s in Curry County by using the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Curry County Circuit Court, and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as the backdrop. In all the reports a male caller has requested personal information and requested a payment for large sums of money, telling the potential victim they have missed Grand Jury and based on their absence a bench warrant was issued for their arrest.

The caller then requests a payment, as bond on the warrant, telling the potential victim they can pay by credit card over the phone. There have also been reports that the caller is reporting to be with the IRS and telling the potential victim the IRS is demanding a large sum of money based on a warrant issued for their arrest.

Please do not provide personal information or make any payments should you receive any calls similar to what has been described. If you have any official business with any of the organizations listed, you will receive written notification on letterhead explaining that you have been selected for Grand Jury and they may call to remind you of your appearance. District Attorney Everett Dial, said “that his office sends out subpoenas for grand jury and that a person who fails to appear on the subpoena could be charged with contempt and arrested. However, Dial stated, that there are no such cases pending now, and that anyone contacted by phone asking for money for failing to come to grand jury should report the matter to the police or sheriff immediately.”

Any payments or fees required by the Circuit Courts will be sent to you on official letter head, with an explanation for the fines/fees and will direct you to conduct your business at the main offices and/or to send a payment to the main offices. These documents will also provide an official case and/or court number associated with the any fines or fees assessed or imposed by the Courts and/or DA. No phone calls for payments will be made by the Court Staff.

Any warrants issued for an arrest will not be followed up by a telephone call requesting bail. You may receive law enforcement contact or a phone call from your attorney if you are represented to notify you of a warrant for your arrest. You cannot clear a warrant by paying bail over the phone or sending payment by mail. To properly clear an arrest warrant you must appear in court and/or be placed into custody and then be given the opportunity to bail once you have been processed on the arrest warrant.

If you have any questions about warrants, fines or fees, you can call the courts. Typically you would only do this if; you have prior contact from law enforcement for legal matters or have pending court matters and/or a closed court case with specific requirements that you would have on official written documents directing you to those requirements.

At this time we are diligently making all attempts to follow up on reports of this scam and narrowing down leads on the suspect(s) involved. If anyone has suspect information and/or needs to report a suspicious contact as described in this release please call 541 247-3242.

Charges: Hit and Run, Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, and Reckless DrivingLocation: West Benham Lane at Oceanview Drive

Vehicle: 2004 Mitsubishi Galant 4D sedan, silver in color

On 2/11/2016 at approximately 7:03pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s received numerous reports of a vehicle crash on West Benham Lane near the intersection of Oceanview Drive. Prior to the crash a witness reported that the vehicle involved, a 2004 Mitsubishi Galant, had been driving west on Benham Lane at a high rate of speed and making an unsafe pass on multiple vehicles.

The witness then reported that after the Mitsubishi passed several vehicles at a high rate of speed, the vehicle struck a guard rail near the intersection of Oceanview Drive. After striking the guard rail, the vehicle continued down to Lower Harbor Road, and pulled into Driftwood RV Park.

As a Sheriff’s deputy was being dispatched to this location, witnesses stated, the sole occupant, later identified as Mario Laos, ran from the vehicle towards Boat Basin Road. At approximately 7:13 pm the first Sheriff’s Deputy arrived on scene to investigate the crash and attempt to locate Laos. During the deputy’s initial contact with witness’s it was learned that Laos was being followed by one of the witnesses on scene. It was then reported that Laos was seen in the area of Sebastian’s Restaurant in Lower Harbor and later down by the commercial boat docks attempting to hide.

At approximately 7:58pm Laos was located by a Sheriff’s Deputy in the parking lot of the commercial boat docks between the public restrooms and the U.S. Coast Guard Station. While escorting Laos back towards a patrol vehicle, Laos was able to break free from the deputy, fleeing towards the boat docks and jumping over the steep embankment.

Laos was then trapped between the water and the steep embankment. Due to the terrain and location where Laos had gotten stuck, further assistance from the Brookings Police Department, Harbor Fire, and U.S. Coast Guard were required to take Laos safely into custody.

A stokes was used by Harbor Fire Department to remove Laos from steep embankment. Once Laos was safely removed from the embankment, he was evaluated for injuries by medics on scene and again at Curry General Hospital. Based on his attempts to flee from law enforcement Laos received minor injuries.

Following his medical evaluations, Laos was cleared medically and lodged in the Curry County Jail on the above mentioned charges.

Contact information: Lt. Michael “Mick” Espinoza (541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Lieutenant Michael “Mick” EspinozaDate: February 11, 2016

Regarding: Fraud – Telephone ScamLocation: Curry County

Agencies Involved: Curry County Sheriff’s Office

On February 11, 2016 the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received reports of a telephonic scam taking place in Curry County. The scam involves an unknown male caller who has reported to be a Captain with the Sheriff’s Office and on another call identified himself as Lieutenant Johnson. The unknown male suspect is telling victims that they owe a large sum of money and if they do not pay the money a bench warrant will be issued for their arrest. It is also reported the male suspect has asked for a meeting to take place at an undisclosed location to exchange the money.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office does not call to collect fines, we do not threaten enforcement actions, and we will not ask persons to meet us to pay a fine. All official business from our agency will occur at our main Sheriff’s Office, the Harbor Sub-station or in person. We encourage all reports of suspicious activity matching this information to be reported immediately. We are currently investigating this incident and looking into leads to identify the suspect(s).

If you receive a phone call matching this activity do not give out personal information or agree to a meeting and contact the Sheriff’s Office at 541 247-3242.

Contact information: Lt. Michael “Mick” Espinoza (541) 247-3200

Media Release

From Sheriff John Ward

Date: 02-09-16

Re: Press Release

On 02-08-16 at about 12:35pm, the Brookings Police Department requested assistance from the Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue rope team due to a report of a woman and her dog being stuck on the side of the cliff above beach at the end of Collis Lane in Brookings. The call came in from a person who had been looking at some property in the area and saw a woman on the side of the cliff. SAR personnel responded and met with Brookings Police Officers and the Brookings Fire Department at the location. The victim later identified as thirty-five year old April Sachanowski of Brookings was stuck on a ledge about 150 feet below the top of the cliff and about 60 feet above the rocks below. Sachanowski also had her large Rottweiler dog with her.

The U.S. Coast Guard had been called to possibly assist and dispatched a helicopter from the North Bend Air Station. SAR members assisted by the Brookings Fire Department who had experience with ropes set up a rope system using the fire truck as an anchor point. SAR member Ryan McGinnis then rappelled down over the edge and secured both Sachanowski and her dog into separate harnesses. McGinnis then attached both Sachanowski and her dog to himself and they were all raised back to the top. Sachanowski was assessed for any medical issues by Cal Ore Life Flight and she was released at the scene after refusing any treatment.

Sachanowski had been missing since the night before when she was reported to the Brookings Police Department as an overdue subject by her boyfriend. Sachanowski said she had been walking on the beach the night before starting at Mill Beach and the tide came trapping her in a cove. Sachanowski said she and her dog tried to climb up the cliff and got to where she could not go up or get back down.

The teamwork between all agencies was amazing which led to the safe recovery of Sachanowski and her K-9 companion.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office is once again participating in a High Visibility Enforcement Grant for the Super Bowl on February 7, 2016 sponsored by Oregon State Sheriff’s Association, Oregon Department of Transportation and National Highway Transportation Administration.

Whether you are routing for Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos or just socially enjoying the festivities, Curry County Sheriff’s Office asks you to be responsible and think before you drive if you have been using an intoxicating substance.

If you use an intoxicating substance, please use a designated driver, cab or other means of transportation other than driving while intoxicated! You can’t replace a life, but you can replace the cost of a cab fare.

Missing Person/Arrested: Richard Viazanko Age: 47Residence: Brookings OregonCharges: Fail to Appear Bench Warrant out of Curry County for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants and Resisting Arrest

Last Scene:

On January 10, 2015 at approximately 9:30 pm the Curry County Sheriff’s Office took a report that Richard Viazanko was lost and/or missing in the area of Wilson Creek, approximately 5 miles up the north bank of the Chetco River. It was reported that Viazanko had gone to the area with two other associates to hunt for mushrooms. The group arrived in the area of Wilson Creek at approximately 11:00 am. From there they each went their separate ways attempting to pick mushrooms.

Viazanko’s associates told Sheriff’s Office Deputies that he was last seen around 2:00 – 3:00 pm. Since that time and prior to making a police report they had driven all the roadways around that location, honking their horn and flashing their lights without success in finding Viazanko. Upon receiving the report Curry County Sheriff’s Deputies and some SAR personnel began doing road searches in the area where Viazanko started and where he was last seen. Those efforts lasted for a couple of hours before the search was called for the evening due to limited resources and poor searching conditions.

At 8:00 am Sheriff’s Office Staff and SAR members began preparing another search for Viazanko in the Wilson Creek and Miller Bar area. While making efforts to deploy resources in that area the Sheriff’s Office was contacted by a local fishing guide on the Chetco River, who reported finding Viazanko on Miller Bar. The fishing guide was able to get Viazanko across the river and put him in contact with Sheriff’s Office Deputies. Cal/Ore Ambulance was requested to respond as it was obvious Viazanko was suffering from hypothermia and reported some other minor injuries from falling.

Viazanko was transported by Cal/Ore Ambulance to Curry County General Hospital for treatment for his injuries and hypothermia. Upon Viazanko’s release from the hospital, he was subsequently arrested for a valid Curry County Warrant. Viazanko was then transported to and lodged at the Curry County Jail.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind people if you plan to recreate in the outdoors, please have the proper clothing for the weather conditions, current maps of the area, a communication device, additional food/water, and let others know about your location/plan.

Charges: Possession of Methamphetamine and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor x 3

Allen Shaffar III Age: 35

Gold Beach

Charges: Possession of Methamphetamine, Probation Violation, and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor x 3

April Jordan Age: 28

Brookings

Charges: Curry County Bench Warrant: Fail to Appear

Robert Jones Age: 23

Gold Beach

Charges: Possession of Methamphetamine and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor x 3

Sharon Jones Age: 59

Gold Beach

Charges: Possession of Methamphetamine and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor x 3

On January 6, 2016 at approximately 7:00 am law enforcement personnel from the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, South Coast Interagency Narcotics Team (SCINT), Oregon State Police, Coquille Indian Tribe, and Gold Beach Police Department served a search warrant at 95906 Euchre Creek Road in Gold Beach, Or. The search warrant was the result of an ongoing investigation into allegations that the residents at this location were in possession of stolen property and possibly in possession of illegal narcotics.

During the execution of the search warrant investigators located various items of stolen property, a small amount of methamphetamine, packaging materials, drug records, and more than $2000 in cash believed to be related to the sales of methamphetamines. Based on the evidence found at the scene Kami Goekner, Allen Shaffar III, and Robert and Sharon Jones were taken into custody for drug related charges and endangering the welfare of a minor. At the time of the warrants execution 3 minors were located in the residence. Also taken into custody was April Jordan who was found to have a valid Curry County Bench Warrant for Failure to Appear.

This investigation will continue and additional charges and more arrests are possible. The Department of Human Services (Child Welfare Division) has been contacted and they are also continuing an investigation into child endangerment.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office participated in a High Visibility Enforcement Grant over Christmas 2015-New Year’s 2016. The HVE ran from December 11, 2015 thru January 01, 2016 and was sponsored by Oregon State Sheriff’s Association (OSSA), Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the National Highway Transportation Administration (NHTSA).

During that time period, 2 Curry County Deputies participated in the HVE, working 19 hours, making 19 traffic stops, arresting 1 DUII, conducting 3 DUII investigations, giving 16 traffic involved warnings, 2 motor vehicle accidents and writing 1 traffic related citation. Deputies also made 2 field contacts that were not traffic related, but at least 1 was related to intoxication.

Curry County Sheriff’s Office will continue to participate in these “blitz” periods for impaired drivers. We encourage everyone to think first before getting in a car after they have been drinking. It is a lot cheaper and safer to use a designated driver, taxi or some other means of getting home.

On December 31, 2015 at approximately 11:30 am, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team (SAR), and a Detective from the Sheriff’s Office located Casey Kirkendall (age 29). Kirkendall was found approximately 2 miles east of his residence on Whaleshead Road in a heavily wooded area. Kirkendall originally left his residence following a dispute on the evening of December 29, 2015. On that date Kirkendall was last seen walking east towards the direction of where he was found. On December 30, 2015 Kirkendall was reported as a missing person by his family. Since that time, Kirkendall had been out in the elements, in a heavily wooded area east of his residence, and at one point had climbed into a “tree stand”.

During the night of December 29 2015, Kirkendall had been in contact with associates and family by cell phone and text messages. Sometime after Kirkendall had climbed on to the “tree stand” it is believed that he fell approximately 20 – 30 feet to the ground. After falling from the “tree stand” Kirkendall remained laying on the ground below the “tree stand” until he was found.

Kirkendall was located by SAR members approximately one hour after being deployed; following a briefing on his last know location. At the time Kirkendall was found he was hypothermic, alert, and semi-conscious. An immediate request for medical attention was made by a SAR Coordinator for Kirkendall.

Kirkendall had been out in the elements for over 36 hours and was not properly prepared to remain in the current weather conditions. Kirkendall’s clothes were not appropriate for the weather conditions and the clothing he was wearing blended in with the terrain, making it difficult to see him from the roadway or for anyone not purposely looking in that area for him.

Kirkendall was immediately assess for injuries and treated for hypothermia. Kirkendall was then removed from the scene with the assistance of Cal/Ore Ambulance and Cape Ferrelo Fire. Kirkendall’s family has been notified and at this time Kirkendall has been transported to Curry General Hospital to be evaluated and treated as necessary.

Contact information: Lt. Michael “Mick” Espinoza (541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Lieutenant Michael “Mick” EspinozaDate: December 31, 2015

Regarding: Missing PersonLocation: Whaleshead - Brookings, Or.

Agencies Involved: Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, U.S. Forest Service

Missing Person: Casey Kirkendall Age: 29

Height: 509 Weight: 160 Hair Color: Brown (short)

Facial Hair: Light Beard

Last seen wearing: Plaid jack, possibly grey or brown colored pants, and carrying a bag of clothing. Kirkendall at one point was reported to be wearing layers of clothing to include possibly a hat.

Identifiers: Possible tattoo on his ring finger.

Male: CaucasianResidence: Whaleshead - Brookings Oregon

Last Scene:

On December 30, 2015 the Curry County Sheriff’s Office took a missing person’s report from a family member of Casey Kirkendall (age 29). While taking the initial report it was learned that Kirkendall had left his residence following a dispute on the evening of December 29, 2015. At that time, Kirkendall was last seen walking east bound on Whaleshead Road. Kirkendall had additional clothing items and medications with him at the time.

During the night of December 29 2015, Kirkendall had been in contact with associates and family by message. It was believed, based on Kirkendall’s messages, that he was somewhere in the forest area surrounding the Whaleshead Beach area. Attempts to contact Kirkendall by phone since his last text message have been unsuccessful.

At the time of making the missing person report, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, attempted to verify appointments Kirkendall had on December 30, 2015 and learned that he did not keep those appointments. Since his last text to associates and family, Kirkendall has not been seen or heard from by those who know him and/or those who have regular contact with him.

At this time there is no evidence to suggest his disappearance involves “foul play”, however there are concerns for his emotional wellbeing. It is not known if Kirkendall has appropriate clothing for the weather or if he has the ability to find a safe place to stay. The Sheriff’s Office has contacted the Mission in Harbor, area hospitals, and the Brookings Police Department to see if Kirkendall has made contact with them or has been seen at any of these locations. Those efforts were unsuccessful.

On December 31, 2015 the Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of Search and Rescue, will search the area where Kirkendall was last seen to include a forest area across from Whaleshead. Information regarding Kirkendall’s disappearance has been shared with all local law enforcement and social service agencies.

Family and friends of Kirkendall are aware of the search and information provided in this release. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will continue this investigation and encourages anyone with relevant information about Kirkendall’s disappearance to contact the Curry County Sheriff’s Office 911/Dispatch center at 541 247-3243. Reports can be made anonymously if necessary.

As additional information is learned about Kirkendall, updated media releases will follow. At this time the general description listed for Kirkendall and the attached photograph are all we have for public identification.

Location: Port of Brookings Harbor, “N” dock, approximately 300 yards south of the Ms. Emily F/V

On December 23, 2015 at approximately 4 pm a Detective with the Curry County Sheriff’s Office located what he believed to be a body in the water near “N” dock in the Port of Brookings Harbor. Immediate efforts were taken to investigate the discovery and to remove the body for proper identification. The body, later identified as Gonzalez, was successfully removed from the water with the assistance of the U.S. Coast Guard stationed in the Port of Brookings Harbor.

Gonzalez was found to be partially submerged in the water and based on the low tide could be seen from the bank. Gonzalez was fully clothed and had identification on his person, as well as tattoos that allowed investigators to make a proper identification of Gonzalez. Next of kin has been notified and Gonzalez body was released to Redwood Memorial Funeral Home.

Prior to this discovery, Curry County Sheriff’s Deputies, a Detective, and SAR members had been searching the area daily where Gonzalez was believed to have been dropped off and where they believed he may have gone in the water. The location where Gonzalez was discovered is approximately 300 yards south of the Ms. Emily F/V where Gonzalez worked. The Sheriff’s Office will continue to investigate this incident. At this time there is no indication Gonzalez’s disappearance was the result of “foul play” or that there is a danger to the public. However, the Sheriff’s Office is making every effort to determine the most likely cause for Gonzalez’s disappearance and ultimately his death. This includes an examination of Gonzalez by a Medical Examiner.

If there is any additional information learned about Gonzalez’s disappearance, updated media releases will follow. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who may have information regarding Gonzalez on the date when he went missing, December 13, 2015, to call the Sheriff’s Office at 541 247-3243.

Curry County, Oregon—If you’re enjoying the holidays with a drink, Curry County Sheriff’s Officehas a message for you: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Due to the increase in drunk-driving-related fatalities around the holidays each year, law enforcement agencies across America will be actively searching for and arresting impaired drivers from December 16 to January 1. They have good reason t in 2013, over 10,000 people were killed in crashes involving a drunk driver. In December 2013 alone there were 733 people killed in crashes involving at least one driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. 23 of those deaths occurred on Christmas Day. In 2014, 9,967 people were killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes, an average of 1 alcohol-impaired-driving fatality every 53 minutes. These alcohol-impaired-driving fatalities accounted for 31 percent of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities in the United States. Oregon accounted for 357 of those crash fatalities.

“It’s time for all drivers to get the message,” said Field Training Officer, Deputy Sheriff Nat Hughes. “Drunk-Impaired driving is a choice you make, and when you make that choice, people get hurt and/or die. That’s why we’re joining with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to share the message: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.” The safest way to get home, Deputy Hughessaid, is to drive sober or catch a ride with a sober designated driver (That means the designated driver does not consume alcohol period!) If you plan on drinking at the holiday party or at a restaurant, hand the keys over to someone else – a sober friend, a taxi or public transportation. Or, try NHTSA’s SaferRide mobile app, which allows users to call a taxi or a friend by identifying their location so they can be picked up. The app is available at http://ow.ly/RWs3S for Android and http://ow.ly/RWs8h for iPhone users.

As part of the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign period, police will be increasing the number of patrols and using local media to reach out to all drivers. If you’re impaired by an intoxicating substance(s) and driving, the Sheriff’s Office will stop you. If you’re caught drinking and driving you will face jail time, fines, loss of driver’s license, towing fees, possible forfeiture of your vehicle used in the commission of the crime of DUII, reckless driving, reckless endangering and other DUI expenses, totaling $10,000 on average. That’s not a small price, and that doesn’t even count the heftier price you could pay: the price of your life or someone else’s.

Some people think that if they get pulled over for driving drunk, they can just refuse a breath test to avoid the DUI charge. “Not true,” said Deputy Hughes. “In most jurisdictions, refusing a breath test means going to jail, the loss of your driver’s license for a year and a trip to the hospital where your blood is taken without your consent by search warrant.” The only way to truly avoid a DUI is to drive sober or designate a sober driver ahead of time. Deputy Hughesadded that there are other options, such as calling a friend, family member, using public transportation, or calling a taxi. The cost of cab fare is nothing compared to a $10,000 DUI or the cost of someone’s life, and the ‘inconvenience’ of not driving your own car home is nothing compared to the inconvenience of spending the holidays behind bars.

In addition to reminding all drivers to drive sober, Sheriff Ward, Curry County is calling on everyone to be alert. If you see a suspected impaired-drunk driver on the road, call the police right away. It is ok to dial 911 for this emergency! If someone you know is about to drive after drinking, take their keys and help them get home safely. “We’ve got to work together to make our roads safer this December and year-round.”

“We can’t stand to see this tragic loss of life again and again,” added Deputy Hughes. “The hardest part of the job is making that house call and telling a family that their loved one is gone because someone chose to drink and drive. That’s why, leading up to the holidays, we will show zero tolerance for drunk drivers on the road. Please find a safe and sober ride home.”

Curry County residence and all drivers, please follow these tips to keep the holidays safe and happy:

Even one drink can impair your judgment and increase the risk of getting arrested for driving drunk-impaired—or worse, the risk of having a crash.

If you will be drinking, do not plan on driving. Plan ahead; designate a sober driver before the party begins.

If you have been drinking, do not drive. Call a taxi (a few of the local taxi services are 412-TAXI (412-8294) and 611-TAXI (611-8294)), phone a sober friend or family member.

Curry County Deputies have worked 11 hours of High Visibility Enforcement since December 11, 2015 looking for impaired drivers. They have arrested 1 drunk-driver, helped an intoxicated subject lying in the road to a hotel, issued 1 traffic citation, issued 8 traffic warnings and helped a stranded pedestrian on the highway. Remember, driving after drinking should never be an option. Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

On 12-18-15, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint from Gold Beach resident and current CEO of Curry Health Network, Virginia Razo that sometime during the night someone had spray painted her house causing about $3000.00 in damages. A Curry County Sheriff’s Deputy contacted Razo at her residence, photographed the damage and collected evidence. Razo has been the victim of ongoing occurrences of damages to her property which led her to have a surveillance system installed. The deputy was provided a video from the surveillance system of a male subject committing the crime. While viewing the video at the Sheriff’s Office, a dispatcher recognized the suspect as a person known to her.

On 12-19-15 at about 4:10pm, Curry County Sheriff’s Deputies contacted forty-nine year old Kenneth Landau of Gold Beach and former CFO of Curry Health Network. Landau was arrested in connection with the damage to Razo’s residence and was transported to the Curry County Jail where he was booked and released on the charges of Criminal Mischief I and Criminal Trespass II. Landau was cited to appear in court on 12-21-15 which he did appear and was arraigned on the charges.

On 12-21-15 at about 4:10pm, a search warrant signed by a Circuit Court Judge was served at the residence of Landau to look for further evidence of the crime.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office is continuing the investigation and all information will be forwarded to the Curry County District Attorney.

Media ReleaseFrom: Sheriff John WardDate: 12-16-15

Re: Press Release

On 12-13-15, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a Cedar Valley resident stating he had found a vehicle in Cedar Creek near the north end of Cedar Valley and that the vehicle was completely submerged except for two of the tires. Curry County Sheriff’s Deputies and a Oregon State Trooper responded along with Search and Rescue. The Cedar Valley Fire, Ophir Fire and Gold Beach Fire Departments were paged to respond as well. At the time it was unknown who the vehicle belonged to or how long the vehicle had been in the flooded creek. Responders checked along the rain swollen banks of the creek to see if there was any indication the driver may have gotten out. Fire crews used chainsaws to cut a path through the thick brush and alder trees to get close enough to the vehicle while a SAR member was able to wade out and attach a chain to the vehicle. Once the vehicle was up-righted and winched out of the water, it was determined there was no-one inside the vehicle belonged to twenty three year old Ray Hunnicutt of Gold Beach. Deputies then learned through subsequent investigation that Hunnicutt had left a social gathering at a private residence on Ophir Road at about 2:30am that morning and had not been seen or heard from since.

Due to the dangerous water condition, search crews were not able to perform a thorough search and had to wait until the flood water subsided enough to make it safer for searchers. In the meantime deputies monitored the water conditions and weather to determine when to resume searching. Local residents and family members searched areas they could get to during this time.

On 12-15-15 at about 10:00am, with a short break in the weather, Deputies, Search and Rescue and volunteers of the Cedar Valley Fire Department resumed search efforts and spent several hours concentrating efforts from where the vehicle had originally entered the water to the mouth of Cedar Creek where it joins with Euchre Creek. From that point, it was not possible to search by foot and the ground search was called off for the day.

Sergeant Ted Heath and SAR member Ryan McGinnis launched McGinnis’ small homebuilt boat and maneuvered through thick willows, snags and debris downstream from Cedar Creek on Euchre Creek. Heath and McGinnis were able to find Hunnicutt about a quarter mile downstream from Cedar Creek on Euchre Creek in an area not accessible by foot. Search crews then had to cut a path to the creek through heavy willows and brush from an adjacent field to recover Hunnicut. Redwood Memorial responded and transported Hunnicutt to their chapel in Brookings.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office expresses our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ray Hunnicutt.

On December 15, 2015 the Curry County Sheriff’s Office took a report from the owner/operator of the Miss Emily F/V that one of his crew members, Miguel Bernardino Gonzalez (age 44), was missing. While taking the initial report it was learned that Gonzalez was last seen on December 13, 2015 at approximately 10:30 pm. On that date and time, Gonzalez was dropped off in the Port of Harbor, Oregon. Since then no one including family, friends, and his employer have had contact with Gonzalez.

Prior to being dropped off in the Port of Harbor, Gonzalez had been socializing with friends, in the Harbor area. The area where Gonzalez was dropped off is several hundred yards from the F/V Miss Emily. At this time the Curry County Sheriff’s Office has searched the area repeatedly and has asked for the assistance of a dive team to look in the Harbor between where Gonzalez was last seen and where the Miss Emily is docked. The dive team will determine if they can assist based on weather and water conditions in the Harbor.

Family and friends of Gonzalez have been notified. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will continue this investigation and encourages anyone with relevant information about Gonzalez disappearance to contact the Curry County Sheriff’s Office 911/Dispatch center at 541 247-3243. Reports can be made anonymously if necessary.

At this time there is no indication Gonzalez’ disappearance is the result of “foul play” or that there is a danger to the public. However, the Sheriff’s Office will be making every effort to determine the most likely cause for Gonzalez’ disappearance.

As additional information is learned about Gonzalez, updated media releases will follow. At this time the general description listed for Gonzalez and the attached photograph are all we have for public identification.

Contact information: Lt. Michael “Mick” Espinoza (541) 247-3200

Media ReleaseFrom: Sheriff John WardDate: 12-15-15

Re: Civil Manager of the Year

On December 9, 2015, while attending the annual Oregon State Sheriff’s Association Conference in Bend, Or., Curry County Deputy Joan Allen-Steineke was awarded the Civil Manager of the Year for 2015. Deputy Allen was chosen out of several applicants from thirty-six counties. An awards committee reviews all nominations and the recipient is awarded the honor at the annual OSSA Conference.

Below is the information sent in for the nomination. We are very proud of Joan here at the Curry County Sheriff’s Office.

Most all Sheriff's Offices have several employees in the civil division who do the processing of mandated civil service and CHL's. Here in Curry County due to financial and budget constraints, we have one person who does it all. Chief Civil Deputy Joan Allen-Steineke is responsible for all civil process and returns in Curry County including the ever increasing demand for CHL's. The numbers for one person is huge and for example since January 2015, Joan has processed over 840 civil papers including 79 Restraining Orders, 264 Subpoenas, 101 FED's, 139 Summons and Complaints, 95 Summons and Petitions, 64 Orders, 24 Miscellaneous papers and 76 Foreclosures with -0- OSSA errors. Not only does Joan stay extremely busy on civil process, she also processed and reviewed 292 CHL's. Deputy Joan Allen-Steineke not only is the Chief Civil Deputy, she is also dual certified in Dispatch and Corrections and steps in whenever there is a need for assistance. What I can tell you about Joan, she is an amazing employee that works very hard trying to keep up on her duties that should take three to four people to do her job. I feel Joan is well deserving of the award and she has my full recommendation.

Media Release

From Sheriff John Ward

Date: 12-14-15

Re: Press Release

On 12-05-15, for the second time in three weeks, Bob and Dave Snazuk of Gold Beach, owners of the Beach Front Best Western Motel in Harbor, Or., donated two more fully equipped Honda Forman ATV’s with extra parts and tires to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue. The value of these two additional ATV’s and equipment is just over $17,000.00., bringing the donation value for all four ATV’s to about $34,000.00.

Currently, the Search and Rescue Team has a mix matched set of older ATV’s that are all different in operations. In conversations with the Snazuk’s, they felt that our SAR team needed the same type of machines so SAR members would be familiar with a single type of operations. This also makes it easier for maintenance by having replacement parts being all the same.

Once again, words cannot express our gratitude to the Snazuk family for their generosity and support to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue. These machines will enhance our abilities to search for lost or injured subjects in hard to get to areas and cover more area much quicker than on foot.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office has been awarded a High Visibility Traffic Enforcement grant through the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association, Oregon Department of Transportation, and National Highway Transportation Administration. This grant provides additional funds for the Curry County Sheriff’s Office allowing us to increase our proactive patrols in an effort to reduce impaired drivers and other nuisance driving offenses during specific times of the year. This program will begin on December 11, 2015 and continue through 2016. The High Visibility Traffic Enforcement program will take place during the Holidays, Holiday weekends, and select dates when it is likely that large volumes of travelers will be on the roadways in Curry County.

The purpose of the High Visibility Traffic Enforcement program is to proactively reduce the likelihood of driving while impaired and to actively investigate those who will operate motor vehicles while under the influence of an intoxicants or that drive in reckless or careless manner. The goal of the Curry County Sheriff’s Office is to utilize additional resources to proactively reduce the number of traffic related incidents to include crashes and crimes during high volume traffic periods.

All those who participate in the program will be monitoring and investigating traffic related offense both traffic violations and criminal offenses in an effort to provide safe travels for those who use the Curry County roadways during high volume traffic periods, such as the Holidays and Holiday Weekends.

We encourage those who attend Holiday functions to drink responsibility, use designated drivers if you consume alcoholic beverages, and to drive in a safe manner when traffic numbers on our roadways have increased. Remember that buzzed driving is drunk driving.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will continue to provide updates on this program as the High Visibility Traffic Enforcement program takes places. These updates will include numbers of traffic offenses investigated, arrests made, and future dates for increased patrols in Curry County. Again, we remind everyone to celebrate the Holidays responsibly and to be patient when traveling to and from their various destinations.

Prepared by: FTO Deputy Nat Hughes

Contact: (541) 247-3243

Media ReleaseFrom: Sheriff John WardDate: 11-23-15

Re: Press Release ATV Donations to SAR

On 11-21-15 the Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue received two new fully equipped 2016 Honda Forman ATV’s and related equipment donated by Bob and Dave Snazuk of Gold Beach, owners of the Beach Front Best Western Inn in Harbor, Or. The value of the donated ATV’s and equipment is $16,815.00. These ATV’s will be a great asset to the SAR team, making searching for lost or injured subjects in hard to get to areas, a little easier.

The Snazak family have been longtime supporters of Search and Rescue and have been very generous over the years. On behalf of the Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team, we would like to thank the Snazuk’s for their generosity and support.

Located: November 17, 2015 at 6:25 pm the North Bend Police Department located Thomas Moore.

On November 17, 2015 at approximately 6:25 pm the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received information from the North Bend Police Department indicating they were in contact with Thomas Moore. After positively identifying the subject they contacted as Moore, North Bend Police Department stated Moore was fine and he advised them he was now living in the North Bend area. Moore’s family members have been notified. The missing person’s information has been lifted and the Curry County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the public’s assistance with this case.

Contact information: Lt. Michael Espinoza (541) 247-3200

Media ReleaseFrom: Lieutenant Michael EspinozaDate: November 17, 2015

Regarding: Missing Person

Location: Gold Beach, OR

Agencies Involved: Curry County Sheriff's Office

Missing Person: Thomas Glenn Moore Age: 34

Height: 508 Weight: 140 lbs. Hair Color: Black (short)

Identifiers: No tattoos, does have a possible scar or scab on the right side of neck

Last Scene: November 6, 2015 walking near the North Bank of the Rogue and by Towne and County Animal Clinic in Gold Beach.

On November 16, 2015 the Curry County Sheriff’s Office took a missing person’s report for Thomas Glenn Moore (age 34). Moore was last seen in the North Bank Rogue area and Towne/Country Vet Clinic in downtown Gold Beach late on November 6, 2015. During that time Moore asked for a ride to Coos Bay. Moore left his home on the evening of November 6, 2015 around 9 pm, taking with him a plastic bag with some clothes and toiletries.

Moore was last seen wearing blue jeans, black boots, a baseball hat, two sweat shirts, 1 grey in color and the other blue in color. The grey sweat shirt had Gold Beach Fire Department written on it. Moore is 5’8” tall, approximately 140 lbs., he has short curly black hair, and hazel eyes. Moore has no piercings, tattoos, but does have a scab or scar on the right side of his neck.

Moore has worked in general labor around the Gold Beach area and most recently was employed as a roofer. Moore has not been in contact with family, friends or his employers. Moore left his residence without a cell phone and he has no local relatives.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in attempting to locate Moore. Anyone with information about Moore or anyone who has seen Moore after November 6, 2015, is asked to call the Curry County 911/dispatch center.

Contact information: Lt. Michael Espinoza (541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 10-30-15

Re: Press Release

On 10-30-15 at about 11:30am, forty-five year old Roy Fritts of Brookings Oregon was found deceased in a river bed about nine miles east of U.S Highway 101 on the Winchuck River, Brookings, Or. Fritts had been reported to the Brookings Police Department as missing by his family on October 24th, 2015 after they had not seen or heard from him in a few days. Brookings P.D. listed Fritts as missing in the national data base and continued the investigation, also giving the description of Fritts and his vehicle out to the public.

On 10-29-15 at about 9:00pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a Brookings resident reporting finding a vehicle parked off the side of the Winchuck River Road about nine miles east of U.S. Highway 101 somewhat hidden from view that fit the description of Fritts’ vehicle. Sheriff’s Deputies responded and located the vehicle which was confirmed to belong to Roy Fritts. An initial search of the area was done and due to the darkness and steep, brushy and rocky area, two Reserve Deputies responded and secured the area until daylight the next morning.

On 10-30-15, at about 9:00am, Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue members assisted by three K-9 search teams from Josephine County started searching the area from where Fritts’ vehicle was located. Sheriff’s Deputies, Detective and a Brookings P.D Detective aided in the search as well.

Search teams located Fritts in the river bed about ¼ mile east of his vehicle. The cause of death is undetermined at this time but there are indications he may have died from hypothermia and possibly a fall from a steep area. Fritts was carried back out by the search teams and released to Redwood Memorial. The Brookings Police Department notified the family of Roy Fritts.

The Curry County Medical Examiner is expected to perform an autopsy on Fritts to determine the cause of death.

Media Release

From: Lt. Michael "Mick" Espinoza

Date: 10-27-15

Re: Volunteer Recruitment

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking volunteers who have an interest and passion for community service. Our volunteers are engaged in many administrative details and special assignments, which help OUR Sheriff’s Office, provide the best service possible. Some of the assigned duties include; helping citizens with crime reports, processing concealed handgun applications, collecting fees for Parole and Probation, assisting with telephone requests, staffing our Harbor Sub-Station, and various other assignments based on operational needs and a volunteer’s experience.

If you are interested in serving your community and working with a professional organization you can apply by picking up a “volunteer application” at the main Sheriff’s Office, the Harbor Sub-Station or on the Sheriff’s Website. Applications will be available at these locations on November 2, 2015. We will be accepting applications until we have an adequate number of volunteers to assist with our services. All applications will be screened and background checks will be completed. Applicants will receive training in the various assignments and be given the opportunity to set their own hours of availability. If you have any questions about our volunteer program you can reach Bruce Cockerham, Volunteer Supervisor, at 541 469-3132 or Lt. Michael “Mick” Espinoza at 541 247-3200.

Contact: Lt. Espinoza

(541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 10-12-15

Re: Press Release

UPDATE: 10-12-15

On 10-10-15 at about 8:05pm, Johnnie Lee Roberson was located hiding in a residence on Hall Way, Harbor, Or., and taken into custody without incident. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a tip that Roberson was at the residence on Hall Way and when deputies went there, the home owner initially denied that Roberson was there but did give consent for the deputies to search. Roberson was found hiding in the bathroom and was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. Roberson was transported to the Curry County Jail and lodged for the prior incident reported on 10-09-15 where it was reported that he robbed a female at gunpoint.

During follow-up investigation up to this point by the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, additional information and evidence was collected regarding the incident in the early morning hours of 10-09-15. The female victim’s story had changed somewhat which led deputies to an upstairs motel room at the Harbor Inn Motel. A bullet was recovered in the sub-flooring of the motel which witness’s state was from Roberson shooting into the floor.

Roberson was booked into jail for Probation Violation, Felon in Possession of a Weapon, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Reckless Endangering, Menacing x 2 and Criminal Mischief II.

On 10-12-15, Roberson was arraigned on two counts of probation violation by the Curry County District Attorney.

Media ReleaseFrom: Sheriff John WardDate: 10-09-15

Re: Press Release

On 10-09-15 at about 6:20am, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from female Harbor Oregon resident stating that while she was walking on West Benham Lane near U.S. Highway 101 in Harbor, a man approached her pointing a gun at her and demanding money from her. The victim knew the suspect as thirty-one year old Johnnie Roberson. The victim stated after Roberson demanded money, the victim told him she did not have any money, Roberson then demanded the victim give him her jewelry. The victim stated after she told Roberson she did not have any money and gave him her jewelry; he fired one single round near her and took off running towards Hwy 101.

There were no Sheriff’s Deputies on duty at the time so a call was placed to a supervisor. Shortly afterwards, Sheriff’s Deputies responded and contacted the victim at her storage unit on West Benham Lane where she had locked herself inside. After gathering information, Sheriff’s Deputies and Sheriff’s Detective assisted by the Oregon State Police and a Detective from the Brookings Police Department canvased the area looking for Roberson, checking last known locations and contacts.

At about 10:30am, while Deputies were checking a residence off Hendry Lane just off Stateline Road, a gold colored vehicle pulled in with two male occupants, turned around and took off at a high rate of speed. Deputies tried to stop the vehicle as it crossed over the border into California. The vehicle continued south failing to yield to emergency lights and siren. The driver of the vehicle continued south past Smith River and turned onto Elk Valley Road where multiple CHP and Del Norte Sheriff’s Office units took over the pursuit. The driver turned into an area and he and his passenger foot bailed from the vehicle into heavy brush.

K-9 assistance was requested from the Crescent City P.D. and the Brookings Police Department. CHP had a helicopter up above the area also but due to the heavy brush and other ground cover, they were not able to locate the two fleeing suspects. CHP impounded the vehicle and the Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office applied for a search warrant to search the vehicle. It is unknown at this time if Roberson was one of the occupants in the vehicle during the pursuit.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office is continuing the investigation and is asking the public for any information that may lead to the whereabouts of Johnnie Roberson who is described as a black male adult, 6’5” and thin build with a possible ponytail. Contact the Curry County Sheriff’s Office at (800) 543-8471 or (541) 247-3242

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 10-05-15

Re: Press Release

On 10-04-15 at about 6:15pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received several 911 calls from the Lobster Creek area about nine miles east of Gold Beach on Jerry’s Flat Road, reporting an ATV accident with injuries. A Curry County Sheriff’s Deputy along with a Gold Beach Police Officer, Cal Or Life Flight and the Gold Beach Fire Department responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, first responders located two young female victims being attended to by by-standers. One of the victims was a fourteen year old girl from the Coos Bay Oregon area who was the apparent operator of the Polaris ATV at the time of the crash and the other was a sixteen year old girl from the Lakeside Oregon area who was the passenger. Both girls were transported to Curry General Hospital where soon thereafter the fourteen year old was flown to OSHU in Portland due to severe major injuries she sustained. The sixteen year old girl was treated at Curry General and released with minor injuries.

According to information provided at the scene, the two girls were camping in the Lobster Creek/Silver Creek area with family and friends for opening weekend of deer season. The two girls had been riding ATV’s during the day and had gone down to the river to swim and they were on their way back to their camp when the operator lost control of the ATV and it flipped over ejecting both girls. Neither of the girls were wearing helmets or protective clothing.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 10-05-15

Re: Press Release

On 10-03-15 at about 8:35pm, while on U.S. Highway 101 near milepost 340 the south end of Pistol River area, Curry County Sheriff’s Deputy Maia Mello was on her way to the Sheriff’s Office in Gold Beach from Brookings operating a marked patrol car and in uniform when she observed a vehicle traveling south bound in between other cars and the driver of that vehicle kept turning the headlights off and on. Deputy Mello turned to stop the vehicle for erratic driving and the driver took off at a high rate of speed, passing other vehicles at speeds that exceeded 80 mph. The driver of the vehicle continued driving south failing to yield to Deputy Mello’s overhead emergency lights and siren. The driver was operating his vehicle in a reckless manner trying to elude Deputy Mello by crossing over into the on-coming lane on blind corners and at one point forced another vehicle off the road to avoid a collision.

Curry County Sheriff’s Sergeant John Ensley responded north from Brookings to set up Stop Sticks near Whaleshead but five miles into the pursuit and prior to Sergeant’s Ensley’s location, the driver of the vehicle tried to turn off the highway at Wilderness Road and crashed into a tree. The male driver foot bailed into the brush leaving three of his passengers, one male and two females in the car. Deputy Mello checked the condition of the three juvenile passengers who all had minor injuries and called for an ambulance. Deputy Mello then heard noise in the brush and caught up to the male driver and arrested him without further incident as the driver tried to get back to the highway. The male juvenile driver had a suspended Oregon Driver’s license and had a valid Juvenile pick up order out of Josephine County for violating probation. The four juveniles who were all from the Grants Pass area were transported to Curry General Hospital by ambulance and later all released to their parents except for the driver. The driver was turned over to the Curry County Juvenile Department to face charges of Assault in the 2nd degree, Reckless Driving, Attempt to Elude a Police Officer and Reckless Endangering x 3.

The Oregon State Police were asked to investigate the traffic crash and all information forwarded to the Curry County Juvenile Department and the Josephine County Juvenile Department.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 09-22-15

Re: Press Release

On 09-18-15 at about 10:00pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received several 911 calls from the area of Crabapple Way about four miles east of Gold Beach on Jerry’s Flat Road reporting some type of a disturbance involving a gun and a stolen vehicle. Curry County Sheriff’s Deputies responded as well as Officers from the Gold Beach Police Department and the Oregon State Police.

Seventy two year old Michael Klein of Gold Beach reported that two females, later identified as fifty year old Sheila Clark of Coos Bay, Or., and twenty-seven year old Michelle Taylor of Crescent City, Ca., had entered his residence without permission and tied him up to a chair. Klein reported that the two women took his cash, debit card and credit cards and then Clark took off in Klein’s Chevrolet Blazer while Taylor remained there to guard him. Gold Beach Police located Klein’s vehicle in the parking lot of McKay’s in Gold Beach and then located Clark inside the store and detained her. In the meantime, Klein was able to free himself and grab a handgun from his chair and point it at Taylor who fled the residence.

Clark was arrested for an outstanding warrant out of Multnomah County and transported to the Curry County Jail where she was also lodged on Robbery in the 2nd Degree, Coercion, Burglary 1st Degree, Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle and Theft 2nd Degree. Deputies searched the area surrounding Klein’s residence for Taylor that evening and the next day but were not able to locate her. Taylor is also wanted out of California on a felony warrant.

All information and evidence will be presented to the Curry County District Attorney and the Curry County Sheriff’s Office is continuing the investigation and additional charges may be pending.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 08-18-15

Re: Press Release

On 08-17-15 at about 11:46pm, Amanda Davidson called the Curry County Sheriff’s Office from her residence in Harbor, reporting that an unknown male subject had tried to break in to her residence through their back door. Davidson woke up her significant other, Jeffrey Burke who went out to confront the subject and was attacked by the male subject later identified as eighteen year old James Hart-Alderson of Brookings. During the struggle, Burke used pepper spray to gain control of Hart-Alderson and held him down until a Deputy could arrive. The only Deputy on duty was in the Gold Beach area at the time and responded. When the Deputy arrived, Hart-Alderson was being held down by Burke so the deputy detained Hart-Alderson until he was able to figure out what was going on. Brookings Police responded to assist the Deputy due to Hart-Alderson being extremely intoxicated, belligerent, combative and uncooperative. Hart-Alderson was transported to Curry General Hospital in Gold Beach by Cal Ore Life Flight due to his intoxicated condition and being sprayed with pepper spray. Hart-Alderson was later medically cleared from Curry General, arrested and transported to the Curry County Jail and lodged on Assault IV, Harassment, Criminal Trespass II, and Disorderly Conduct.

After the Sheriff’s Deputy had arrived at the Davidson/Burke residence and detained Hart-Alderson, Jeffrey Burke suffered a severe medical issue and had to be transported to Sutter Coast Hospital in Crescent City. Burkes condition apparently worsened later at the hospital and he to be flown to Rogue Valley Hospital in Medford where he was listed in critical condition.

It is unknown at this time why Hart-Alderson was allegedly trying to break into the Davidson/Burke residence but he was under the influence of alcohol and a controlled substance at the time. Hart-Alderson’s blood alcohol content at Curry General Hospital was .28% and he admitted to consuming methamphetamine earlier.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office is continuing the investigation and all information will be forwarded to the Curry County District Attorney. Additional charges may be pending.

On 08/13/15 during the evening hours, Lin was located at an Oregon State Park and then contacted by the Oregon State Police. She did not require any assistance. The location and welfare of Andrea Lin is no longer of interest. Thank you for all the information obtained from citizens and other law enforcement agencies.

Last Contact: Lin’s last with her family occurred on August 11, 2015 at approximately 9 pm.

INCIDENT:

On August 12, 2015 Andrea Lin’s family called in to report her missing. They last contacted her on August 11, 2015 at approximately 9 pm. At that time Lin was reported to be staying at or near a campground she described as “Gold Creek”. Lin then told her parents she had met a nice retired couple who allowed her to camp on their property. The only name Lin’s family received regarding the couple was possibly “Barb”. Lin also reported that the couple lived in Gold Beach.

This was the last contact Lin had with her family, she did post some information around this time on Facebook, but nothing further has been posted since the last contact with family. Lin is reported to be biking along the Southern Oregon Coast traveling from Crescent City to Seattle. Lin was reported to travel 100 miles per day and check in with her family and friends at least twice a day.

Attached are photographs of Lin and what we believe is the last location she is known to have stayed. We are asking for public’s assistance in identifying Lin, a location where you may have seen her, and if you know the couple or location where she stayed. The retired couple mentioned is reported to live in Gold Beach and have four children who are out of the home.

At this time there is no information to suggest foul play. There are concerns for her general safety and for her whereabouts.

This investigation is continuing and if you have any information please contact 911/dispatch immediately 541 247-3243.

On August 3, 2015 at approximately 1735 hours, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office responded to Loeb State Park for a reported male subject, later identified as Frank Howard, with an apparent stab wound to his back. Sheriff’s Deputies made contact with Howard, who had been found earlier by a passerby walking down the North Bank of the Chetco River. Howard was immediately provided medical attention and transported by Cal/Ore Ambulance to Curry General Hospital in Gold Beach to receive treatment for the injuries he sustained.

Based on the nature of the incident and information learned regarding how Howard sustained his injuries, a request was made by the District Attorney to activate the Major Incident Crime Team. While resources were being assembled to investigate this incident, Curry County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the location of the original incident. This was a campground at the South Fork of the Chetco River.

At this location deputies located a van belonging to Howard with damage to the vehicle and various personal items strewn around the campsite. They also witnessed evidence to support the fact Howard had been assault with a deadly weapon/knife. This evidence included blood on and around Howard’s vehicle.

During the initial investigation Howard was contacted at Curry General Hospital by Sergeants from the Curry County Sheriff’s Office and Brooking PD. Howard was able to provide a statement about the incident, to include descriptions for both suspects involved with the incident. The suspects were identified as Angel Grant-Raines and Maria Delcristo. Based on Howard’s descriptions of the suspects and other witness statements, law enforcement personnel on scene at the South Fork; were able to put out an attempt to locate for Delcristo and Grant-Raines.

Following the attempt to locate information, which only included descriptions for Delcristo and Grant-Raines, it was learned they had earlier received a camping voucher for Harris Beach State Park from the Brooking Police Department. This information was immediately provided to all law enforcement personnel on duty. Brookings PD, the Oregon State Police, and the Curry Sheriff’s Office responded to Harris Beach State Park. At this location they identified Delcristo and Grant-Raines based matching the earlier description given by Howard. During the contact with Grant-Raines and Delcristo statements were obtained that confirmed Delcristo and Grant-Raines had been camping with Howard.

Both Delcristo and Grant-Raines agreed to speak with law enforcement personnel at the Brookings Police Department about their involvement with Howard. During this portion of the investigation it was learned that Grant-Raines and Delcristo had met Howard a week prior in Crescent City California, traveling with him to Brookings Oregon and Camping with him over the past week at the South Fork on the Chetco River.

Investigators also learned on August 2, 2015 at unknown times there were various disputes throughout the day between all three subjects. At one point the dispute between the subjects turned physical. Delcristo was alleged to have hit Howard with her hands and/or knee during some part of this dispute. It was also alleged that Grant-Raines had slashed at Howard with a broken bottle and/or knife.

Following the physical assault of Howard, Grant-Raines and Delcristo left the scene staying at a separate campsite for the night, before being provided transportation into Brookings on August 3, 2015. Howard remained at the campsite overnight, not seeking medical attention for his injuries, but then walked out of the campsite on August 3, 2015, where he was picked up and provided assistance by a passerby.

At this time the Major Crimes Team is continuing the investigation into this incident. This includes the Oregon State Police Crime Lab processing the original scene for evidence. Statements have been and are continuing to be obtained by those involved in the incident and further efforts are being made to obtain and evaluate any and all evidence related to this matter. At this time the Major Crimes Team is attempting to locate any and all persons who may have been camped around or had contact with Howard, Grant-Raines, and Delcristo from Friday July 31, 2015 through Monday August 3, 2015. These three subjects were camped in a red van with Colorado plates and had three dogs with them. The Major Crimes Team is also looking for information from anyone who may have been in contact with Grant-Raines and Delcristo on August 3, 2015 in the City of Brookings or at Harris Beach State Park.

Anyone with information regarding this incident are encouraged to call the Curry County Sheriff’s Office at 5414 247-3242 or 911.

Charges: Reckless Endangering, Unlawful Use of a Firearm, Disorderly Conduct, and Possession of Methamphetamine.

INCIDENT:

On July 31, 2015 at approximately 2300 hours, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Brookings Police Department, and the Oregon State Police responded to 19056 Woodton Road for report of shots being fired from this residence. One of the original reporting parties, a friend of Zosel’s, reported hearing shots being fired from Zosel’s residence earlier in the evening. Based on what he heard, he went to check on Zosel’s welfare and when he arrived at the residence, he found Zosel shooting from inside his residence at his own vehicle and at one point in the direction of his friend who had parked in the driveway. Zosel’s friend also heard Zosel yell “call the police”.

As the initial responding units arrived they were clearly able to hear shots from various caliber weapons coming from the area of Zosel’s residence on a consistent basis. It was unclear why Zosel was firing his weapons; however Curry County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch began to receive multiple calls of shots being fired in the area of Zosel’s residence.

Numerous attempts were made to contact Zosel via telephone and with a police loud speaker. Zosel refused to answer the phone or any request for cooperation. Multiple times while attempts were made to contact Zosel shots could be heard coming from his residence.

Based on the number of shots fired, the known threat presented to law enforcement by Zosel, he was considered armed and barricaded. A request was made for an Oregon State Police Tactic Team and that request was authorized. While the tactical team was being assembled and en route to the location, continuous attempts were made contact Zosel. This included setting up a perimeter around Zosel’s residence for the safety of his neighbors. During the course of the standoff, Zosel could be heard yelling at law enforcement on scene.

At approximately 0500 hours on August 1, 2015, Zosel exited his residence and surrendered to law enforcement personnel on scene. Zosel was taken into custody without incident and there were no other subjects located at the residence. An investigation found Zosel had several firearms in the residence with numerous rounds being fired. Zosel had also barricaded the residence and shot through most, if not all the widows, walls, and the front door of the residence. Zosel was also found to be in the possession of methamphetamine.

At this time Zosel’s weapons have been seized, he has been charged for the incident, and he was lodged at the Curry County Jail. This investigation is continuing and information will be provided to DA’s Office for prosecution.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office participated in a High Visibility Traffic Enforcement event from July 3, 2015 through July 6, 2015.

During that time period the following enforcement actions were taken by those who participated:

4 drivers were arrested for DUII (2 of those arrests involved crashes)

1 Drug Recognition Evaluation was completed for a for a driving while impaired investigation

4 MIP citations for alcohol were issued

2 MIP citations for tobacco were issued

1 citation for a Juvenile in possession of marijuana was issued

The purpose of the High Visibility Traffic Enforcement event is to proactively reduce the likelihood of driving while impaired and to actively investigate those who will operate motor vehicles while under the influence of an intoxicants or that drive in reckless or careless manner. The goal of the Curry County Sheriff’s Office is to utilize additional resources to proactively reduce the number of traffic related incidents to include crashes and crimes during high volume traffic periods.

Prepared by: Lt. Michael “Mick” Espinoza

Contact: (541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 07-20-15

Re: Press Release

On 07-19-15 at about 1:10am, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from Cari Devine, the owner/manager of the KOA campground just south of Langlois, reporting that a camper had woke her up and told her they could hear a woman yelling for help off in the distance. Devine said they walked to the west end of the camp ground and could hear a woman still yelling for help but that they could not locate her but felt the woman was quite a ways to the north west of the campground in thick brush and trees.

There were no deputies on duty at the time and Curry County dispatch was not able to reach anyone except for the Sheriff. Sheriff Ward responded and met with the reporting person and then went to the area where the woman was last heard.

At about 2:05am, Sheriff Ward was able to make voice contact with the woman and then was able to find her about two hundred yards west of the KOA campground in very heavy brush and trees. The woman identified as thirty eight year old Michael Trullinger of Langlois was lead back out to a road where she was given a ride back to her residence. Trullinger stated that she had been out picking mushrooms the evening before dark and got lost. Trullinger was not injured but she was wet from walking in a marsh area.

Charges: Driving While Under the Influence of an Intoxicant, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering, and Resisting Arrest.

INCIDENT:

On July 15, 2015 at approximately 1845 hours, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, along with Harbor Fire Department responded to a reported motor vehicle crash in the area Lower Harbor at Haul Road, just below the Chetco Bridge. The initial reports indicated the vehicle, a 1996 Ford Ranger pickup, had driven off the road way at his location and crashed into the guard rail.

Prior to this crash, the driver identified as Robert Anderson, left the Voodoo Lounge and refused a taxi. Shortly after refusing a taxi and leaving from the Voodoo Lounge in his own vehicle, Anderson almost hit a vehicle head on, causing that person and the taxi driver to call 911. Before a Sheriff’s Deputy could be dispatched to the area, Anderson crashed into the guard rail on Haul Road just under the Chetco Bridge.

A Sheriff’s Deputy arrived shortly after the crash and determined Anderson was highly intoxicated and non-compliant. Anderson was continuing his efforts to drive away from the scene even though he did not have keys for his vehicle. Anderson was placed under arrest for Driving Under the Influence of an Intoxicant and had to be forcibly removed from his vehicle by Sheriff’s Deputies.

Once removed Anderson was taken to Brooking Police Department for a breath test. Anderson refused this and based on his level of intoxication was transported to Curry General Hospital for further testing and evaluation.

At Curry General Hospital Anderson consented to further evaluations by providing a blood sample. The results of Anderson’s blood sample indicated he had blood alcohol content of .410%.

Due to Anderson’s extremely high blood alcohol level he was admitted to Curry General Hospital for further treatment and evaluation. Based on Anderson being admitted for treatment, he was cited and released for the mentioned criminal charges.

At this time this investigation is continuing and information will be provided to OLCC regarding Anderson’s intoxication level, his actions while leaving the Voodoo Lounge, and the crash.

Contact: Lt. Espinoza

(541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Sheriff John WardDate: 07-14-15

Re: 2 Rescues by Curry SAR

Two separate rescues on different days.

On 07-10-15 at about 5:00pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a family member of fifty-one year old Suzanne Hedge of Brookings, Or., stating that Hedge had fallen about thirty feet over a cliff while walking along a trail near Thunder Rock Cove viewpoint about twelve miles north of Brookings. The information provided was that Hedge was not injured but could not get back up to the trail. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Rope team were called to respond while Deputies responded as well. Deputies and SAR located Hedge about fifteen feet over an embankment and used ropes to secure her and assist her back to the trail uninjured.

On 07-11-15 at about 12:30pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call regarding a female adult that had injured her ankle while walking the trails at Indian Sands Viewpoint about nine miles north of Brookings. The information provided was that fifty-two year old May Jane Chambers of Gold Beach had injured her ankle while near the beach and could not walk back to the trail head. Cal Ore Ambulance was paged to respond as well as the Cape Ferrelo and Brookings Fire Departments. The Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue responded and with the help of four volunteers of the Cape Ferrelo Fire Department and three volunteers of the Brookings Fire Department, were able to secure Chambers in a stokes and carry her back to the top. Chambers was then transported to Curry General Hospital.

On July 3, 2015 at approximately 0256 hours, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office dispatch center received a report of a motor vehicle crash near 42764 Port Orford Loop, in Port Orford, Oregon. The Port Orford Police Department initially responded to the crash, while a Sheriff’s Office deputy was being called out to assist. Port Orford Police arrived on scene shortly after the call came into dispatch and advised there were two subjects involved in the crash and both who were injured.

While the Sheriff’s Office deputy was en route to the crash scene, Port Orford Fire Department, extricate the passenger, Nicole Meeker. Meeker was immediately transported by Cal/Ore Ambulance to Curry General Hospital for serious injuries. Meeker was later flown by Life Flight to Rogue Valley Hospital for further treatment and evaluation.

At approximately 0430 hours a Curry County Sheriff’s deputy arrived on scene and took the investigation over. The Sheriff’s Deputy noticed a 1998 Dodge pickup over the embankment at this location and the vehicle appeared to be totaled. The deputy then made contact with the driver, Johnathan Shepherd, who appeared to have some minor injuries. Shepherd advised the deputy that he and Meeker had been involved in a dispute with a third party and that person was following and/or chasing them in another vehicle.

Shepherd told the deputy that he was driving too fast for the conditions and at one point he lost control of his truck, causing it to leave the roadway for approximately 166 feet, where he sheared off a power pole, before coming to rest after slamming head on into a tree. The deputy on scene also put Shepherd through a series of Field Sobriety Tests, noticing that Shepherd had potentially consumed alcohol prior to the crash.

Shepherd was later transported to Curry General Hospital by a private party for treatment on his injuries and then placed into custody for the mentioned charges. At this time the Curry County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into the crash. It does appear that alcohol, speed, and possibly road rage are all factors. As further information is developed, there is a potential for additional charges and/or arrests

As this investigation continues the Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information to contact us at 541 247-3242.

Contact: Lt. Espinoza

(541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 07-02-15

Re: Cliff Rescue

On 07-01-15 at about 9:17pm, The Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a transfer call through the Brookings Police Department from nineteen year old Valentin Uebelhoer of Chelmsford, Massachusetts, reporting that he had fallen down a cliff and was not able to get back to the top. Uebelhoer said he was hiking along a trail near the Natural Bridges view point and slipped and fell over the edge. Natural Bridges View Point and Thunder Rock Cove is about twelve miles north of Brookings, Or., along U.S. Highway 101. Sheriff’s Deputies and State Police responded to the area and after walking out the trail system, located Uebelhoer about ninety feet over a steep embankment about two hundred feet above the rocks below. The Curry County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue rope rescue team responded and were able to set up a rope system in the trees above Uebelhoer. Once a safety system was in place a SAR member rappelled down to Uebelhoer. When the rescuer reached Uebelhoer, he secured a harness to him and then the rest of the SAR team manipulated the system to get Uebelhoer and the rescuer back to safety.

The rescue took approximately two hours from the time of the original call. The location, the darkness and precarious predicament Uebelhoer was in made the rescue extremely dangerous and I couldn’t be more proud of our Search and Rescue Team. There was no hesitation on what had to be done, they did their job safely and in the most professional manner. Curry County is fortunate to have such a fine group of SAR volunteers.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will be ramping up extra patrol’s for the 4th of July holiday weekend thanks in part to a High Visibility Traffic Enforcement grant through the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association, Oregon Department of Transportation, and National Highway Transportation Administration and will continue these patrols through the end of July. This grant provides additional funds for the Curry County Sheriff’s Office to allow us to increase our proactive patrols in an effort to reduce impaired drivers and other nuisance driving offenses during specific times of the year.

This year, the Fourth comes on a Saturday, so Friday, July 3, is the Federal holiday and observance. That means the Fourth of July weekend starts at 6 pm Thursday and extends to 5:59 am Monday morning, July 6.

This Fourth of July, law enforcement in Curry County is taking part in a crackdown to put an end to impaired driving. The state wide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving” campaigns will mean increased enforcement with zero tolerance for those who drive impaired, which can include any of the following by themselves or mixed together: alcohol, prescribed pills, synthetic substances and cannabis to name a few.

In 2013, Forbes magazine named the Independence Day holiday “the most dangerous holiday of the year.” Throughout the region, drivers should expect to see law enforcement out in force, cracking down on impaired driving through increased enforcement efforts and saturation patrols.

Unfortunately, these enforcement campaigns are necessary—drunk/impaired driving is an epidemic in our nation. In 2013, there were approximately 10,076 people killed in drunk-driving crashes. That’s almost one third of all traffic fatalities nationwide. July is Curry County’s highest month for DUII related incidents.

If you drive impaired, you not only put your life and the lives of others at risk, you could face a DUII arrest. The average DUII costs $10,000. You may face jail time, loss of driver’s license, higher insurance rates and dozens of other unanticipated expenses from attorney fees, fines and court costs, car towing etc.

Curry County Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone to have fun and enjoy as you celebrate our Nation’s Independence, but ask that you do so responsibly. Here are some tips for keeping you and your loved ones safe over the holiday weekend:

Plan a safe way home before the fun begins.

Before using intoxicating substance(s), designate a sober driver.

If you are impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member.

If you see a drunk driver on the road or getting into a vehicle to drive, call 911!

If someone is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get home safely.

Whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many, it’s never worth the risk to drive drunk/impaired. There’s always another way home. This Fourth of July, if law enforcement pulls you over for drunk driving and you are impaired, whether by alcohol or some other impairing substance, you WILL be arrested!

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office participated in a High Visibility Traffic Enforcement event from May 19, 2015 through June 16, 2015

During that time period, 1 driver was arrested for DUII as a result of a traffic crash, other citations were issued for various traffic violations; to include reckless driving and no insurance. A total of 13 hours were dedicated to the High Visibility Enforcement.

While on regular duty hours, Curry County Sheriff’s Office arrested 1 DUII as a result of an injury crash involving juveniles. Deputies also responded to a car fire where a subject was discovered alive, but severely injured and was flown out by Cal/Or Life Flight as a result of the injuries.

The purpose of the High Visibility Traffic Enforcement event is to proactively reduce the likelihood of driving while impaired and to actively investigate those who choose to operate motor vehicles while under the influence of an intoxicant(s) or that drive in reckless or careless manner. The goal of the Curry County Sheriff’s Office is to utilize additional resources to proactively reduce the number of traffic related incidents to include crashes and crimes during high volume traffic periods.

Prepared by: FTO Deputy Nat Hughes, Patrol Division

Contact: (541) 247-3200

Media Release

From Sheriff John Ward

Date: 06-23-15

Re: Press Release

On Thursday 06-18-15 at about 4:17pm, the Ray Huffman of Port Orford, Or., contacted the Curry County Sheriff’s Office to report that his wife, seventy nine year old Joyce Huffman had been missing from their property at the top of Hensley Hill for about an hour. Ray Huffman stated they he had been looking for her but was not able to find her. Additional information provided was that at the time Joyce Huffman went missing she was suffering from several medical issues.

Curry County Sheriff’s Deputies and several SAR members led by SAR Coordinator Deputy Ted Heath and Sheriff John Ward responded to the property and searched the property around the residence, but were not able to find her before dark. Additional resources were requested from CORSAR (California Oregon Regional Search and Rescue), who were gathering for the weekend at Riley Ranch North of North Bend for the annual CORSAR training. Several K-9 Search teams from the CORSAR counties diverted and responded to the Huffman residence and once on scene also searched the area until about 4:00am Friday morning without success. The search was suspended until additional resources could arrive.

Joyce Huffman was listed in the national data base as a missing and endangered person and an all points bulletin was issued throughout the state.

On Friday 06-19-15 at about 9:00am, an Incident Command Post was set up on the property of the Port Orford City Shops just below Hensley Hill and between eighty and one hundred searchers prepared for search assignments. An Overhead Incident Command Team from CORSAR counties assisted in the planning and logistics of the search. ATV teams, K-9 teams and Ground Teams deployed all resources into the planned search area, searching the wooded area around the residence and all residences and properties on Henley Hill Road. Air assets were provided by the U.S. Coast Guard as well as Civil Air Patrol. The Coast Guard used FLIR while CAP used loud speakers from their planes. A privately owned Ultra lite aircraft also assisted in the search from the air. A private SAR member deployed a set of drown crafts equipped with cameras and were able to fly along the Elk River and areas near the residence, By the end of Friday, searchers had found no clues to indicate where Joyce Huffman was. Search efforts were greatly hindered due to the prevalent amount of gorse brush, making it very difficult to search most areas.

A very significant push was made to track the areas searched by downloading data from hand held GPS units onto a mapping program in computers used at the incident base. This created a visual representation for Command personnel to direct searchers into specific areas greatly maximizing the effectiveness of searches. Large maps were printed as well as smaller maps to hand out to all searchers.

On Saturday 06-20-15 at about 9:00am, the Incident Command vehicle was relocated onto the Huffman property for better communications with searchers. Approximately twenty five searchers including family members, K-9 teams, ground teams and ATV teams participated in checking areas. A K-9 search team located several shoe prints in an area of the North Fork Hubbard Creek drainage that had not been searched and it was thought the prints could have been Joyce Huffman’s. Additional search teams were sent to the area that was extremely rugged and almost impassable. Local citizens took part in searching outlying areas, road systems and the Elk River. They continued in the area until late evening and found nothing else.

On Sunday 06-21-15 at about 9:00am, the Sheriff’s Office communication vehicle and Command Trailer was relocated again to the Fire Station on Old Mill Road. Assignments were given to all search teams to continue in the area of the North Fork Hubbard drainage and all surrounding property. Local residents in that area also assisted in searching for Joyce. Once again search efforts were hampered due to the overwhelming amount of gorse brush. The search continued into the evening with no additional clues as to the whereabouts of Joyce Huffman.

On Monday 06-22-15, at about 9:00am, after the Incident Command Team prepared assignments, approximately twenty searchers including a five Jackson County SAR members, a Josephine County Air Scent K-9 team, family members and a few local volunteer searchers assisted the Curry County SAR team in continuing searching some of the areas that had already been searched to check for access points through the thick gorse. Early afternoon, Sheriff Ward contacted Dan Bratton of Cal Or Life Flights and asked for assistance in doing an overflight of the area. Dan Bratton flew to a landing area near the residence and picked Sheriff Ward up. After about a forty five minute flight, Sheriff Ward located a large timber stand that was surrounded on all sides about a quarter mile from the Huffman property. A three man search team from Jackson County was directed to the area to search. Just over an hour into the search of the wooded area, they located a purse that belonged to Joyce Huffman. All searchers and resources were then directed to that location to continue searching. Approximately two hours after the purse was found, Curry County SAR member and Man Tracker Ryan McGinnis found Joyce Huffman in a gorse patch. Huffman was dehydrated and hypothermic but she was conscience and alert.

SAR members and volunteers of the Sixes River and Port Orford Fire Departments started cutting a trail through the gorse into where Joyce was found. The Port Orford Ambulance responded and Joyce Huffman was carried out by stretcher as it got dark and she was transported to Curry General Hospital.

I would like to thank the dedicated Curry County SAR, the Incident Command Teams of CORSAR and SAR volunteers who assisted in the search as well as the volunteer fire fighters from the Port Orford Fire and the Sixes Fire Departments, the local citizens who assisted. There was well over four thousand man hours involved in this search for Joyce. Finding Joyce and reuniting her with her family and community would have been much more difficult without their assistance and I am proud of our community partnership.

A very special shout out to Curry County’s IT Director Todd Weeks, who spent every day there in the Command Center making sure we had working equipment, updated maps with current GPS tracks downloaded, giving a clear picture of what areas were searched and needed to be searched.

Media Release

From: Don Kendall, Emergency Services

Date: 06-13-15

Re: Buckskin Fire

The lightening caused Buckskin Fire is approximately 1/2 mile SE of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness and six miles north of the California border, located in the Baldface Creek area of Curry county.

High temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds have driven the fire to 1,200 acres. The Path of the fire remains toward the South West following the Creek drainage.

*A Red Flag Warning remains in effect*

There are 145 personnel and aircraft currently assigned to the incident and a Type 3 Incident Management Team took command on June 13 at 6:00 a.m.

Fire and sometimes heavy smoke is still in the area and is part of the normal extinguishment process. There are no evacuations planned or expected for the foreseeable future.

Curry County remains at “Level 1” or “Management Watch-Standby” for this incident.

Media ReleaseFrom: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 06-05-15

Re: Press Release

On 06-04-15 at about 9:59pm, a Port Orford Police Sergeant radioed the Curry County Sheriff’s Office requesting immediate backup due to being injured while dealing with a combative subject who he was attempting to arrest. The subject fled on foot from a vehicle he had just crashed in Port Orford near Madrona Street. The Sergeant requested medical for his injuries and advised that once he had the handcuffs on the suspect, identified as twenty one year old Matthew Storm of Port Orford, Storm had head butted him and during the struggle, the Sergeants left hand was injured. The Sergeant reported that Storm had then taken off on foot and that he was giving chase.

The only County Sheriff’s Deputy on duty at the time was in the Brookings area and there was an OSP Trooper at his office in Gold Beach. A call was placed to the Sheriff who responded from his home while a Gold Beach Police Officer was initially responding as well but was called off prior to arrival. While deputies and officers were responding to assist, The Sergeant informed he had Storm on the ground but that Storm was combative due to being under the influence of a controlled substance. Once the Deputies and Trooper arrived, they were able to secure Storm to a gurney and he was transported to Curry General Hospital to be medically cleared before going to the jail. The Port Orford Police Sergeant rode in the ambulance to assist the Port Orford Ambulance crew with Storm as the Deputies and Trooper followed in their patrol cars. The Ambulance had to stop twice along the way due to Storm breaking free of restraints and being combative. During one of the incidents in the ambulance, an ambulance crew members hand was injured. A Deputy and the Trooper got into the ambulance and rode the rest of the way to the hospital to help control Storm.

Once Storm was medically cleared from Curry General Hospital, he was then transported to the Curry County Jail where he was lodged on Probation Violation, Resisting Arrest x 4, Assault IV, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Burglary II, Escape II, Attempt to Elude a Police Officer, Criminal Mischief II, Assault on a Peace Officer, Assault III, Interfering With a Peace Officer and Aggravated Harassment.

It is unfortunate that with the county’s financial restraints that restricts our law enforcements resources, that our Deputies and Officers are constantly putting themselves in harm’s way while trying to protect and serve on their own with little to no back-up. I want to give a shout out to our emergency dispatcher that was on duty by herself that night here at the Sheriff’s Office. She is our newest communications deputy and she did a fantastic job on getting an ambulance rolling at the same time getting back up for assistance from other agencies while at the same time making several phone calls to supervisors, taking other phone calls, handling other radio traffic, continuing to monitor the jail’s activities, and getting all the information documented at the same time. I am very proud of our employees and their dedication.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: June 5, 2015

Re: Press Release

On 06-03-15 at about 4:07pm, Mona Peterson of Harbor, Or., contacted the Curry County Sheriff’s Office to report that her husband, fifty-three year old Dallas Peterson had been missing from their property for about five days. Mona Peterson stated that they had last seen Dallas Peterson on 05-29-15 and that he had been working on their well pump which was about two hundred yards below their residence. Mona Peterson stated that she and her family had been looking for Dallas but were not able to find him. Additional information provided was that Dallas Peterson may have been under the influence of a controlled substance at the time he went missing and that he was suffering from several medical issues.

Curry County Sheriff’s Deputies and several SAR members led by SAR Coordinator Deputy Ted Heath responded to the property and searched the property around the residence and around the area of the well which Dallas had been working on, but were not able to find him before dark. A search effort was coordinated for the next morning.

On 06-04-15 at about 10:30am, Sheriff’s Deputies and SAR members including a two SAR members and a K-9 search dog from Del Norte County arrived back at the Peterson property. The Sheriff’s Office communication vehicle was deployed and set up on the Peterson property for incident command. SAR members including Sheriff Ward formed a ground search team and started searching the heavily wooded area from the well area where Dallas Peterson was last seen. The search was directed down a drainage below the water well where the search team started discovering items such as tools, pack of cigarettes, inhaler, backpack and clothing articles spread out down the steep brushy drainage that were believed to have been left by Dallas Peterson.

About an hour into the search, the SAR team located the body of Dallas Peterson at the bottom of the drainage under heavy brush approximately four hundred yards below where he was last seen. Due to the steep rugged area, additional manpower was requested from the Harbor Fire and the Winchuck River Fire Departments. Crews used a chainsaw and machetes to cut a path down to where Peterson was found. Peterson was secured in a stretcher and it took the search crew about three hours using a chainsaw winch to get Peterson back to the top of the drainage where he was released to Redwood Memorial.

At this time, there does not appear to by any foul play and an Autopsy was scheduled for later that evening to determine exact cause of death. All indications point to possible hyperthermia and the Sheriff’s Office will continue the investigation.

I would like to thank the dedicated SAR volunteers who assisted in the search as well as the volunteer fire fighters from the Harbor Fire and the Winchuck River Fire Departments. The recovery would have been much more difficult without their assistance and I am proud of our community partnership.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 05-26-15

Re: Press Release

On 05-25-15 at about 5:50pm, a thirteen year old female from Brookings walked into the Brookings Police Department reporting that she had been raped by a seventeen year old male and that it happened in the south county area. A Curry County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Sergeant was called to respond and did an initial interview with the young female complainant. The female complainant was provided a ride to Curry General Hospital by a family member for a forensic exam.

On 05-26-15 a Curry County Sheriff‘s Detective and Patrol Sergeant contacted the female victim and she was able to describe the location and then show the deputies where the incident took place. Deputies located the area and recovered evidence of the sexual assault. The Detective then assisted the Curry County Child Advocacy Center with a forensic interview of the female victim where she divulged additional information.

Sheriff’s Detective then contacted the seventeen year old suspect from Harbor and after an interview, arrested him on charges of Rape in the 2nd Degree, Sodomy in the 2nd Degree and Sex Abuse in the 1st Degree. The seventeen year old suspect was transported to the Del Norte County Juvenile Detention Center by the Curry County Juvenile Department.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office is continuing the investigation.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 5-23-2015

Re: Press Release

On the morning of 05-22-15, at approximately 8:10am, Oregon State Police responded to a report of suspicious conditions on the river bar at Loeb State Park. A large pile of personal property was found on the bar including a cell phone and identification of 42 year old Angela Schauber. Near the pile of personal property was found droplets of blood.

Schauber’s family on the East coast was contacted and advised they had not heard from Schauber in a long time. Curry County Sheriff’s Deputies assisted Oregon State Police in trying to locate Schauber at her last known addresses, but attempts were unsuccessful. Schauber’s vehicle, a black ford utility van, was located in the parking lot of the South Coast Shopping Center in Harbor, unlocked and apparently abandoned.

The Curry County District Attorney activated the Major Crimes Team and further investigative assistance was rendered to the Oregon State Police by the Curry County Sheriff’s Office. During the investigation it was learned that Schauber had a boyfriend thirty eight year old Brian Kuzdale, whose whereabouts were also unknown.

After learning that Schauber and Kuzdale shared a campsite on a spur road off U.S. Forest Service Road 1107, a Curry County Forest Deputy responded to the camp site and while enroute located Schauber, walking along the U.S.F.S Road 1107. Schauber was in good health and agreed to accompany law enforcement back to Loeb State Park where she was interviewed regarding her property being left on the river bar.

Schauber was assisted in gathering her belonging and she was given a courtesy ride back to her camp site on U.S.F.S. Road 1107. Where she was given food from the Forest Deputy’s lunch and Schauber declined any further assistance.

Attempts to locate Kuzdale in the Brookings Harbor area throughout the day were unsuccessful.

At approximately 8:38pm, Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a citizen traveling down U.S.F.S Road 1107 who advised there was a van on fire near the 550 Spur Road. The U.S.F.S. was contacted and responded to the fire advising the fire was not in danger of spreading.

Sheriff’s Office Dispatch was advised that this fire was possibly related to the Schauber/Kuzdale incident earlier in the day. Curry County Sheriff’s Office personnel and U.S.F.S. law enforcement responded to location of the fire.

When law enforcement arrived the vehicle fire was out and as they approached with headlights on the vehicle a person was observed to sit up and look out at them. The person in the burned out vehicle was identified as Angela Schauber from the earlier incident. Schauber had suffered serious burn injuries, however, was alert and conscious and able to provide a statement to law enforcement while ambulance was enroute.

Schauber said she had tried to take her own life, by first cutting her wrists and then lighting the vehicle on fire while she sat inside. When Schauber could no longer take the pain and heat from the fire, she exited the vehicle. It is unknown where Schauber was when the fire was first reported or when the U.S.F.S. came to check on the fire.

Schauber was transported by ambulance to Sutter Coast Hospital and was then flown to Legacy Emmanuel Hospital in Portland, Oregon.

On 05-23-15, Kuzdale was located in Smith River, California and interviewed by the Curry County Sheriff’s Office and the Oregon State Police. Kuzdale stated he had been staying with his friend in Smith River since the argument that led to all Schauber’s property being left on the River Bar. Law enforcement was able tocollaborate Kuzdale’s whereabouts during the night of 05-22-15 and 05-23-15.

The Oregon State Police will continue the investigation with the assistance of the Curry County Sheriff’s Office.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting High Visibility Traffic Enforcement from May 19, 2015 through June 16, 2015. This will cover the Memorial Weekend and local High School Graduations. The purpose of the High Visibility Traffic Enforcement program is to utilize grant funds provided by NHTSA, ODOT, and OSSA to increase our patrols and proactively reduce; the likelihood of driving while impaired and to actively reduce and investigate those who will operate motor vehicles in reckless or careless manner during periods of increased traffic in Curry County. Based on the ability to use this grant, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office can provide enhanced safety on the rural roadways throughout Curry County.

We encourage those traveling through the area during this time period or anytime; to drink responsibility, use designated drivers if you consume alcoholic beverages, and to drive in a safe manner as traffic numbers on our roadways have increased. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will provide updates on the results of the High Visibility Traffic Enforcement program. This will include updates on enforcement actions to include traffic offenses investigated, arrests made, and future dates for increased patrols in Curry County.

The High Visibility Traffic Enforcement program is our effort to proactively reduce the number of traffic related incidents to include crashes and crimes during high volume traffic periods.

Prepared by: Lieutenant Michael Espinoza

Operations Lieutenant

Contact: (541) 247-3200

Press Release From: Sheriff John Ward Date: 05-08-15

Re: Cedar Valley Fire

On 05-07-15 at about 1:18pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from Pamela Aldridge of Gold Beach reporting that her residence in Cedar Valley was on fire. The Sheriff and Deputies responded as Cedar Valley Fire Department was paged to respond. Sheriff’s Deputies arrived first on scene to find that the residence was not on fire but a vehicle near the residence was fully engulfed and the fire had spread into the brush of a logged off unit belonging to the Crook Timberlands. Coos Forest Protective Association responded to assist Cedar Valley Fire as well as Ophir Fire Department. Fire Crews were able to extinguish the vehicle fire and then started trying to contain the wild land fire. Coos Forest Protective Association used a Dozer to cut a fire line around the south end of the fire to keep it from spreading any further. The Gold Beach Fire Department sent a Fire Tender truck along with a crew and after several hours all fire crews were able to contain the fire which burned about four acres. During the incident, Cal Or Life Flight who had been staged nearby was asked to respond to the Aldridge residence for a medical issue and ended up transporting the female homeowner to Curry General Hospital.

It was quite impressive to see how everyone worked together in an area where it was not very accessible to get to with firefighting equipment. The quick responses and hard work kept the fire from spreading more than it did. It is unknown at this time what caused the fire. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will assist the Cedar Valley Fire Department in the investigation.

Media Release

From: Sheriff John Ward

Date: 05-07-15

Re: Series of Events on 05-06-15

On 05-06-15 at about 8:30am, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from twenty-five year old Robyn Culley of Port Orford, Or., reporting that she had fallen about a 100’ out of a tree and she was injured. Culley did not know where she was, only that she and twenty-seven year old Sean Richards had ran into the woods south of Sea Crest Motel thinking they were being chased by the cops. Sheriff’s personnel responded along with the Port Orford Fire Department and the Port Orford Ambulance. Several calls were placed back and forth to Culley and Richards in order to try and pin point where they were. About an hour and a half after the 911 call, Deputies, Search and Rescue, and Port Orford Ambulance located Culley and Richards in heavy brush between Cemetery Loop Road and Old Mill Road. Culley was wet, cold and suffering from hyperthermia. Culley was attended to by EMS and placed into a stretcher to be carried out of the area with the assistance of SAR and the Port Orford Fire Department. Culley was transported to Curry General Hospital. Richards was taken into custody at the scene for violation of probation and transported to the Curry County Jail. Culley was later medically cleared from Curry General and taken into custody for violating her probation and a new charge of possession of methamphetamine.

On 05-06-15 at about 1:55pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from Judy Klus of Cedar Valley, Gold Beach., reporting that her husband, forty-seven year old Theodorus Overdevest was trapped under a large mower that had flipped over on him. Sheriff’s Deputies responded as well as the Cedar Valley Fire Department. Upon arrival, it was determined that while mowing his lawn, Overdevest had got too close to a steep embankment and the mower flipped over a couple times crushing Overdevest underneath it. Overdevest was pronounced deceased at the scene. Deputies and Firemen were able to get Overdevest out from under the mower and carried back to the top where he was then transported to Redwood Memorial in Brookings.

On 05-06-15 between 2:47pm and 3:44pm, three separate traffic crashes occurred in three different locations in the county that Sheriff Deputies responded to. The first traffic crash was a report of a vehicle over an embankment about sixteen miles east of Gold Beach on Lobster Creek Road. The driver, sixty-two year old Chao Vang of Crescent City, CA., and his two passengers were uninjured after their vehicle had lost brakes and rolled over an embankment coming to rest on a tree.

The second traffic crash was another single vehicle roll over on Carpenterville Road near Demoss Road. The driver, sixteen year old Elena Villa of Brookings lost control of her vehicle when she reached down to grab a water bottle. Deputies arrived along with the Brookings Fire Department and Cal Or Life Flight Ambulance. The Oregon State Police arrived and took over the investigation and have more details on the traffic crash.

The third traffic crash was another single vehicle roll over on U.S. Highway 101 near Cape Ferrelo Road just north of Brookings. The driver, Jeffrey Dewolf of Crescent City California drifted across the lanes of travel and ended up in the ditch upside down. Deputies arrived and secured the scene until an Oregon State Trooper arrived to do the crash investigation. Dewolf was transported to Curry General Hospital by Cal Or Life Flight. The Oregon State Police have more details on the traffic crash.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office participated in a High Visibility Traffic Enforcement event from March 20, 2015 through April 30, 2015.

During that time period, 2 drivers were arrested for DUII as a result of traffic crashes, multiple citations were issued for various traffic violations to include; driving on a suspended license, driving without insurance, and failure to wear a seat belt while driving. There were also multiple Drug Recognition evaluations completed for other agencies by the Curry County Sheriff’s Office Drug Recognition Expert. These evaluations were also part of Driving While Impaired Investigations. A total of 13 additional patrol hours were dedicated to the High Visibility Enforcement.

The purpose of the High Visibility Traffic Enforcement event is to proactively reduce the likelihood of driving while impaired and to actively investigate those who will operate motor vehicles while under the influence of an intoxicants or that drive in reckless or careless manner. The goal of the Curry County Sheriff’s Office is to utilize additional resources to proactively reduce the number of traffic related incidents to include crashes and crimes during high volume traffic periods.

Prepared by: Lt. Michael “Mick” Espinoza

Contact: (541) 247-3200

Media Release

From: Curry County Law Enforcement

Date: April 30, 2015

RE: Law Enforcement Memorial

On May 13, 2015, at 12:00pm, Local law enforcement will hold the annual Law Enforcement Memorial service at the Gold Beach Veteran's Memorial located at the south end of Gold Beach. The public is invited to join all of the law enforcement agencies at this service. This service is to remember the Law Enforcement Officers who have died in the line of duty in or who are from this area.

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund would like everyone to realize, “On average, one law enforcement officer is killed in America every 58 hours, and over 58,000 officers are assaulted each year; in which more than 15,000 are injured as a result of these assaults.”

On September 13, 1994; President Bill Clinton signed public law 103-322 requiring the American Flag to be lowered to half-staff on May 15th, each year to honor Peace Officers Memorial Day.

If you have any questions or comments about this service, you can contact Lt. Donny Dotson of the Brookings Police Department. If you would further information about fallen Peace Officers, go to National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, web site.

After doing much research and talking to other Sheriff’s around the state of Oregon, it is quite clear to me that Senate Bill 941 is a bad piece of legislation and appears to be an infringement upon our citizens’ Second Amendment Rights. SB 941 will not keep the guns out of the criminals’ hands; it will only affect those who obey and live within the law. In my opinion the government does not need to know who owns guns or how many guns they own.

As Sheriff of Curry County, I support keeping guns out of the hands of “Criminals” and we have current laws to enforce this. We do not need a poorly written law that would be difficult to enforce and cause undue hardships and problems to our law abiding citizens who historically wish to acquire a gun legally through private sales.

There is a time when proposed laws like this need to be addressed. We need to take a stance and express what is right for all citizens regarding these bad laws that are being imposed upon us from those who are out of touch with “We the People” and try and govern us from afar.

On 4/24/2015 at approximately 2:45 pm a Curry County Sheriff’s Office deputy observed suspicious male, who he believed was a wanted subject in the area of Wenborne Lane and Sunset Strip. This subject was later identified as Michael Plew DOB/08-05-88. As the deputy attempted to contact Plew, he quickly disappeared in some nearby brush. The deputy continued to look for Plew in the area, when he witnessed a passenger car drive by his location and coming from the area where the deputy last witnessed Plew. Believing the vehicle had possibly picked up Plew, the deputy attempted to follow the vehicle to further investigate his suspicions.

As the deputy was following this vehicle, he observed the vehicle fail to stop at the stop sign at Olsen Lane and Oceanview Drive. The deputy then activated his overhead emergency lights in an attempt to conduct a traffic stop. The vehicle immediately began to speed up failing to yield and attempting to elude the deputy.

The deputy pursued the vehicle driven by Plew south on Ocean View Drive reaching speeds in excess of 80 miles per hour. During the pursuit a Sheriff’s Office detective joined the deputy to assist in trying to stop the fleeing vehicle. At the south end of Oceanview Drive, on a 90 degree corner approaching Highway 101, Plew lost control of his vehicle taking out two mailboxes on Oceanview Drive and then crashed into a fence, causing further property damage to the asphalt, shrubbery and water service of another residence on Oceanview Drive. Plew and his two passengers, Tamara Gastonguay dob/12-29-75 and Dylan Hall dob/01-20-94, were detained on scene and medical personnel were requested.

Plew and Gastonguay were transported to Curry General Hospital for minor injuries. Hall was interviewed and allowed to leave. The vehicle being driven by Plew was a 2000 Hyundai four door sedan and registered to Gastonguay. Gastonguay was cited for allowing unlawful operation of a motor vehicle as Plew’s driving status is suspended.

After receiving medical attention, Plew was lodged in the Curry County Jail on the charges listed. Plew will also be cited for Driving While suspended and speeding. There may be additional charges to follow as the investigation continues.

The Oregon State Police assisted the Sheriff’s Office by completing the traffic crash investigation.

Contact information: Lt. Michael Espinoza (541) 247-3200

Media Release

Date 04/08/15

From: Sheriff John Ward

UPDATE on below Press Release Dated 4/7/15:

On 04-08-15, a Curry County Sheriff's Detective applied for and was granted a search warrant for the vehicle Zachary Quisenberry was operating at the time of his arrest on 04-07-15. The Detective and arresting Deputy searched the vehicle and located additional evidence such as methamphetamine, scales, and a stolen shotgun out of California. The evidence was seized and the information forwarded to the Curry County District Attorney's Office for additional charges for both Zachary Quisenberry and Joseph Rawlins for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

Media Release

Date: 04/07/15

From: Sheriff John Ward

On 04-07-15 at about 7:38am, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from Tony Voudy of Brookings, Or., reporting that while driving northbound on Highway 101 in the Pistol River area, a driver of a black Ford Ranger going south bound drifted over the centerline and side swiped Voudy’s vehicle nearly hitting him head on, breaking the side mirrors off both vehicles. The black Ford Ranger continued south without stopping while Voudy turned around and followed the vehicle. Curry County dispatch transferred the 911 call to the Oregon State Police for response. Curry County Sheriff’s Lt. Mick Espinoza was north of that location when he overheard the call and Deputy Matt Carballo was in the Brookings area and they both responded in the direction of the call. Deputy Carballo located the black Ford Ranger being followed by Voudy near Eggers Road and 101. Deputy Carballo turned around and had activated his emergency lights when the Black Ford Ranger took off at a high rate of speed, turning onto Barnacle Rock Road in an attempt to elude. Deputy Carballo caught up to the fleeing vehicle as it had turned onto a private driveway hitting a small log. The driver and passenger had gotten out of the vehicle and were ordered to the ground at gun point until Sergeant Murray of the Brookings Police Department, Trooper Wehner of the Oregon State Police and Lt. Espinoza of the Sheriff’s Office arrived to assist.

The driver, twenty-four year old Zachary Quisenberry of Klamath Falls, Or., was taken into custody and was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. After an initial records check, the passenger, twenty-five year old Joseph Rawlins also of Klamath Falls was told he was free to leave. Quisenberry was transported to the Curry County Jail by the Oregon State Police. A short time later it was discovered that the passenger, Joseph Rawlins had a felony warrant for his arrest out of Klamath Falls for Probation Violation on an original charge of possession of methamphetamine. Sheriff’s Lt. Espinoza located Rawlins at the Circle K Store in Brookings and arrested him without incident. Rawlins was transported to the Curry County Jail and lodged on the warrant. The vehicle Quisenberry was driving was seized as evidence for application of a search warrant for possible additional controlled substances.

Charges: Driving While Under the Influence of an Intoxicant and Assault

INCIDENT:

On March 29, 2015 at approximately 2000 hours, the Gold Beach Police Department and Curry County Sheriff’s Office, along with Gold Beach Fire Department responded to 27684 Hunters Creek Road for a reported motor vehicle crash. The initial reports indicated the vehicle, a 1994 Ford Ranger pickup, had driven off the road way at his location, possibly rolled and trapped the occupants of the vehicle.

Gold Beach Fire Department had to extricate the occupants of the pickup in order provide them with proper medical care. Gold Beach Police initially arrived on scene and determined there were four occupants, all juveniles, one of them being the driver a 17 male, who was believed to be intoxicated.

Shortly after removing the occupants of the vehicle, three of the four were transported to Curry General Hospital for treatment on injuries they sustained as a result of the crash. One of the juvenile passengers was later flown by Cal-Ore Life Flight to Eugene for specialized medical treatment.

A Curry County Sheriff’s Deputy arrived on scene and began the initial crash investigation. During the investigation, it was determined the driver was intoxicated, which was the determining factor for the crash.

The Sheriff’s Deputy arrested the 17 year old male driver for driving under the influence of an intoxicant. Based on the high level of the driver’s blood alcohol content, the Sheriff’s Deputy could not lodge the driver at Juvenile Detention. The driver was then issued a citation and released to his parents.

At this time there is no other information with regard to the status of the other passengers. This investigation is continuing and additional charges are likely to be filed against the driver as a result of the crash and injuries sustained by his passengers.

Contact: Lt. Espinoza

(541) 247-3200

Media Release

Date: 03-28-15From: Sheriff John Ward

Re: Capsized boat at mouth of Rogue River claims one life.

On 03-28-15 at 7:38am, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received two 911 calls from witnesses to a boating accident at the mouth of the Rogue River. The callers reported that about an eighteen foot boat with at least two subjects had capsized near the north jetty as it was attempting to cross the bar outwards. Sheriff Deputies, Ted Heath, Walter Scherbarth and Terry Brown were at the boat barn at the Gold Beach airport when the call came in and quickly hooked up to the marine boat and responded. A Gold Beach Police Officer responded to the jetty and relayed information regarding the location of the boat and conditions of the water. The bar was breaking half way across from the south side and there were six to ten foot swells on the north side. Deputies Heath, Scherbarth and Brown located the overturned boat about three hundred yards off shore of the north jetty in about twelve to fourteen foot swells. Near the boat they located the two occupants of the boat and one was holding onto a seat cushion and the other was face down in the water and unresponsive. Deputies pulled the unresponsive person onto their boat and then threw a lifeline to the other. Deputies were able to get the second person on board who was alert but very hypothermic and then transported them both back to the boat ramp where Cal Or Ambulance meet them. CPR was started on the unresponsive boat operator, fifty six year old Thomas Whiting of Cottage Grove, Oregon while the passenger thirty six year old Charlie Johnson also of Cottage Grove were transported to Curry General Hospital. The Gold Beach Fire Department had arrived and assisted the Medical crews with CPR for just over an hour until Whiting was pronounced deceased. Johnson who is the nephew of Whiting was admitted to the hospital for hyperthermia. There was also a female yellow lab on board but it has not been located.

Curry County dispatch contacted the Cottage Grove Police Department and requested a death notification to be given to the family of Whiting. The District Attorney was notified of the death and Redwood Memorial from Brookings responded to Curry General for Whiting.

I am very proud of my Dispatch Deputies who coordinated the rescue efforts by getting the information and relaying it so quickly. I am also so very proud of my Deputies who risked their lives this morning without hesitation. They without a doubt saved the life of Charlie Johnson and they did all they could to help save the life of Thomas Whiting.

On March 27, 2015 at approximately 0830 hours, a Curry County Sheriff’s Detective initiated an investigation into suspicious activities related to possible drug activity taking place at 98080 Rivendell Way in Harbor. While trying to make contact with the occupants of this residence, Nuria Tranchina, drove up to the residence and was contacted by both the Sheriff’s Detective and Oregon State Police Trooper, who just arrived to assist. During the initial contact with Tranchina, he was found to be in possession of a controlled substance, a methamphetamine pipe with residue. Tranchina was immediately taken into custody after he made an attempt to destroy evidence by breaking a methamphetamine pipe found in his possession during a search of his person.

Due to the suspicious activities of the occupants of this residence and contact with Tranchina, the Sheriff’s Office Detective applied for and was granted a search warrant for this residence and for all persons and vehicles present.

During the execution of the search warrant 10 grams of methamphetamine, scales, drug records, a large sum of cash, pre-packaged marijuana for sale, packaging materials, and marijuana seeds were found inside a back pack located in the vehicle belonging to Tranchina. Oliver was found to have in her possession items related to the ingestion of heroin. Oliver had to be transported from the scene to Curry General Hospital for issues related to the ingestion of a controlled substance and the potential she was attempting to destroy evidence.

Steinke was cited and released from the scene for frequenting a known place where controlled substances are used/sold. Haussler was placed into custody for a Probation Violation based on his involvement with known drug users and possession of methamphetamine.

This investigation is continuing based on evidence gathered at the scene and statements made by those contacted. Additional charges are possible as this investigation continues.

Contact: Lt. Espinoza(541) 247-3200

Media Release

Date: 03-26-15

From: Sheriff John Ward

On 03-25-15 at about 9:49pm, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a resident on Oceanview Drive near Toner Lane in Harbor, reporting a vehicle crashed into a power pole and the driver fled on foot. Sheriff Deputies responded from the Gold Beach area and the Harbor Fire Department was called to the scene. As deputies were responding, they were notified that the Fire Chief, Harbor 21 had followed the driver as the driver ran south on Oceanview Drive and then left the roadway and ran through a field. A deputy arrived on scene and searched the area where the driver was last seen running. About thirty minutes later, the deputy located the driver hiding behind some buildings and took him into custody without incident. The driver was identified as twenty four year old Jedidiah Warren of Brookings.

Warren had been driving south on Oceanview Drive near Toner and lost control of his vehicle, crossing over the north bound lane and struck a power pole. The impact severely damaged the power pole and Coos Curry Electric was called to respond. Warren was arrested and charged with DUII, Reckless Driving, Hit and Run-Property Damage. Warren was transported and lodged in the Curry County Jail.

On 03-26-15, Warren was arraigned on the charges by the District Attorney’s Office and then released by citation to appear in court at a later date.

The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting High Visibility Traffic Enforcement from March 20, 2015 through April 30, 2015. The purpose of the High Visibility Traffic Enforcement program is to utilize grant funds provided by NHTSA, ODOT, and OSSA to increase our patrols and proactively reduce; the likelihood of driving while impaired and to actively reduce and investigate those who will operate motor vehicles in reckless or careless manner during periods of increased traffic in Curry County. Based on the ability to use this grant, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office can provide enhanced safety on the rural roadways throughout Curry County. Especially, over the spring break holiday, and during the month of April when we anticipate increased traffic from visitors. In addition to the spring break holiday, the month of April is recognized nationally as “Alcohol Awareness” month.

We encourage those traveling through the area during this time period or anytime; to drink responsibility, use designated drivers if you consume alcoholic beverages, and to drive in a safe manner when traffic numbers on our roadways have increased. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will provide updates on the results of the High Visibility Traffic Enforcement program. This will include updates on enforcement actions to include traffic offenses investigated, arrests made, and future dates for increased patrols in Curry County.

The High Visibility Traffic Enforcement program is our effort to proactively reduce the number of traffic related incidents to include crashes and crimes during high volume traffic periods.